Authors
Samiksha Nayyar, Kapil Kumar Gupta
Abstract
Short Tandem Repeat (STR) markers have emerged as indispensable tools in both forensic science and genetic research, offering unparalleled precision in individual identification and genetic analysis. This review delves into the technological advancements, diverse applications, and future directions of STR marker research, underscoring their pivotal role in advancing our understanding of human genetics and enhancing forensic investigations. Technological innovations, including massively parallel sequencing (MPS) and integration with other genetic markers, promise to revolutionize genetic profiling, providing higher resolution and more comprehensive insights into human genetic variation. Furthermore, advances in forensic phenotyping and ancestry prediction offer exciting prospects for expanding the utility of STR markers in forensic and anthropological contexts. However, alongside these promising developments come ethical, legal, and social considerations. Issues such as genetic privacy, consent, and the responsible use of genetic information underscore the need for robust regulatory frameworks and ethical guidelines. As the field continues to evolve, it is imperative to prioritize ethical considerations and ensure that research and practice uphold the highest standards of integrity and respect for individual rights. Keywords: Forensics, Genetics, STR Markers, DNA Profiling, Advancements
Introduction
Short Tandem Repeat (STR) markers have significantly transformed forensic science and genetic research in recent decades. These DNA sequences, distinguished by repeating short nucleotide motifs, are highly polymorphic and serve as a robust tool for individual identification and genetic studies. Their extensive variability among individuals makes STR markers ideal for a range of applications, including criminal investigations, paternity testing, and population genetics (Budowle and Van, 2008). In the realm of forensic science, STR markers are fundamental to modern DNA profiling techniques. They enable precise differentiation between individuals, which has led to their widespread use in criminal justice systems globally. Forensic laboratories employ STR analysis to connect suspects to crime scenes, identify human remains, and exonerate innocent individuals (Butler, 2005; Kaur & Singh 2017; Jobling & Gill 2004). The establishment of national and international DNA databases enhances the effectiveness of STR markers, fostering cross-border collaboration in solving crimes. STR markers are equally crucial in genetic research. They are utilized in studies examining genetic diversity, population structure, and evolutionary biology. Researchers use STR analysis to trace ancestry, study gene flow, and investigate the genetic basis of various traits and diseases. The reliability and robustness of STR markers also make them valuable in medical genetics, aiding in the mapping of disease genes and the study of hereditary conditions (Rao & Nagalakshmi 2010; Marwaha & Bansal 2013).
Technological Advancements in STR Marker Analysis
• Development of STR Markers
• Enhancements in STR Typing Methods
• Automation and High-Throughput Techniques
• Advances in Bioinformatics for STR Data Analysis
The utilization of Short Tandem Repeat (STR) markers has undoubtedly reshaped the landscape of forensic science and genetic research, offering unparalleled precision in individual identification and genetic analysis. Through a comprehensive exploration of technological advancements, diverse applications, and future trajectories, this review underscores the pivotal role of STR markers in advancing our understanding of human genetics and augmenting forensic investigations. Technological strides, such as the advent of massively parallel sequencing (MPS) and integration with other genetic markers, promise to propel STR marker research into new frontiers. These innovations hold the potential to revolutionize genetic profiling, providing higher resolution and more comprehensive insights into human genetic variation.
References
Budowle, B., & van Daal, A. (2008). Forensically relevant SNP classes. BioTechniques, 44(5), 603-608.
Butler, J. M. (2005). Genetics and genomics of core short tandem repeat loci used in human identity testing. Journal of Forensic Sciences, 50(5), 1154-1161.
Chaitanya, L., Ghosh, S., & Mallick, S. (2016). Forensic significance of ABO blood group distribution in rural and urban populations of Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, India. International Journal of Anatomy, Radiology and Surgery, 5(1), RO37-RO42.
Evett, I. W., & Weir, B. S. (1998). Interpreting DNA evidence: Statistical genetics for forensic scientists. Sinauer Associates.
Gill, P. (2001). An assessment of the utility of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for forensic purposes. International Journal of Legal Medicine, 114(4-5), 204-210.
Jobling, M. A., & Gill, P. (2004). Encoded evidence: DNA in forensic analysis. Nature Reviews Genetics, 5(10), 739-751.
Kaur, S., & Singh, A. (2017). Short tandem repeat (STR) markers - A powerful tool for DNA profiling. Forensic Science International: Genetics, 28, e1-e2.
Marwaha, R. K., & Bansal, D. (2013). Molecular markers in diagnosis of haematological malignancies. Indian Journal of Medical Research, 137(5), 982-994.
Rao, C. R., & Nagalakshmi, K. (2010). Genetic markers: an overview. Journal of Plantation Crops, 38(1), 1-16.
Reddy, B. M., & Trivedi, R. (2006). A novel point mutation in the CYP21 gene leading to congenital adrenal hyperplasia in an Indian population. Clinica Chimica Acta, 370(1-2), 130-134.
Reddy, B. M., Langstieh, B. T., Kumar, V., Nagaraja, T., Reddy, A. N., Meka, A., & Thangaraj, K. (2007). Austro-Asiatic tribes of Northeast India provide hitherto missing genetic link between South and Southeast Asia. PLoS ONE, 2(11), e1141.
Singh, M., & Bansal, D. (2006). Microsatellite (STR) polymorphism in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and chronic myeloid leukaemia. Indian Journal of Medical Research, 124(1), 65-72.
Srivastava, K. R., Raval, J. S., & Mishra, M. (2014). Short tandem repeat (STR) polymorphism in caspase genes (CASPASE 3 and CASPASE 9) in Indian breast cancer patients. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, 15(22), 9763-9766.
Syndercombe Court, D., & Theaker, J. M. (2004). DNA profiling. Medicine, Science and the Law, 44(4), 315-322.
Thangaraj, K., Joshi, M. B., Reddy, A. G., Gupta, N. J., Chakravarty, B., & Singh, L. (2002). CAG repeat expansion in the androgen receptor gene is not associated with male infertility in Indian populations. Journal of Andrology, 23(6), 815-818.
Turrina, S., Filippini, G., & Barizzone, N. (2001). The efficiency of short tandem repeat typing for DNA analysis in forensic casework and parentage testing. International Journal of Legal Medicine, 114(1-2), 30-33.
Verma, R. P., & Krishna, A. (2018). DNA profiling in forensic science: A review. Journal of Forensic Science & Criminal Investigation, 9(3), 555760.
How to cite this article?
| APA Style | Nayyar, S., & Gupta, K. K. (2024). STR Markers: Pioneering Advances in Forensic Science and Genetic Research. Academic Journal of Forensic Sciences, 07(01), 38–44. |
| Chicago Style | |
| MLA Style | |
| DOI | |
| URL |