[Genotype reliability of short tandem repeats typing from minute DNA]

To understand the forensic practice of DNA profiling from minimal amount of DNA.

Serial dilutions of DNA were amplified with the PowerPlex 16 System Kit, then the genotyping of short tandem repeat(STR) was performed by ABI 377 DNA automated Sequencer.

When the mount of DNA template was less than 250 pg, allelic drop-out apparently occurred at several loci. Other disturbed peaks, such as artefact bands and imbalanced heterozygote, also presented.

The anomalous results may result in incorrect genotyping. Careful and comprehensive considerations are needed to interpret the STR profile of minute DNA.