Validation and evaluation of the Identifiler?« Plus system using environmentally compromised DNA samples.

Abstract

Internal validations are required for every laboratory for every kit chemistry used. This study validated the Identifiler?« Plus STR Amplification kit for use at the University of Central Oklahoma. Validations examine the sensitivity, precision, reproducibility, peak height ratio, and stutter observed in testing. In addition to these components, the validation also sets mixture interpretations, evaluates contamination, and conducts a mock case study. At the conclusion of the validation, the Identifiler?« Plus kit was also tested using common inhibitors such as UV light, humic acid, tannic acid, and hematin. Guidelines for interpretation and an analysis of the affect of inhibitors were drawn from the results obtained in the study.