A technique for setting analytical thresholds in massively parallel sequencing-based forensic DNA analysis

Brian Young, Jonathan L. King, Bruce Budowle, Luigi Armogida

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

17 Scopus citations

Abstract

Amplicon (targeted) sequencing by massively parallel sequencing (PCR-MPS) is a potential method for use in forensic DNA analyses. In this application, PCR-MPS may supplement or replace other instrumental analysis methods such as capillary electrophoresis and Sanger sequencing for STR and mitochondrial DNA typing, respectively. PCR-MPS also may enable the expansion of forensic DNA analysis methods to include new marker systems such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and insertion/deletions (indels) that currently are assayable using various instrumental analysis methods including microarray and quantitative PCR. Acceptance of PCR-MPS as a forensic method will depend in part upon developing protocols and criteria that define the limitations of a method, including a defensible analytical threshold or method detection limit. This paper describes an approach to establish objective analytical thresholds suitable for multiplexed PCR-MPS methods. A definition is proposed for PCR-MPS method background noise, and an analytical threshold based on background noise is described.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere0178005
JournalPLoS ONE
Volume12
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2017

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A technique for setting analytical thresholds in massively parallel sequencing-based forensic DNA analysis'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this