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Updated: Jul 7, 2026
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Simple and Rapid Method to Obtain High-quality Tumor DNA from Clinical-pathological Specimens Using Touch Imprint Cytology
Published on: March 21, 2018
Cancerous tissues in forensic genetic analysis.
Susi Pelotti1, Stefania Ceccardi, Milena Alù
1Department of Medicine and Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy. susi.pelotti@unibo.it
Genetic Testing
|February 26, 2008
Summary
Cancerous tissues exhibit microsatellite alterations, impacting forensic DNA analysis. Careful evaluation of DNA typing results from tumor samples is crucial for accurate identification and paternity testing.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Forensic Science
- Oncology
Background:
- Microsatellites (short tandem repeats, STRs) are vital genetic markers.
- STRs are used in gene mapping, forensic investigations, population genetics, and tumor genetic studies.
- Neoplastic tissues can serve as a genetic source for forensic identification when other samples are unavailable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate allelic alterations in 15 STR loci within 56 sporadic gastrointestinal carcinomas.
- To assess the suitability of using cancerous tissues for forensic applications.
- To provide data on the incidence of microsatellite instability (MSI) and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in tumor samples.
Main Methods:
- Screening of 56 sporadic gastrointestinal carcinomas.
- Analysis of allelic alterations across 15 STR loci.
- Comparison of microsatellite profiles between cancerous and normal tissues.
Main Results:
- Sixty-six percent of analyzed cancerous tissues showed microsatellite allelic alterations.
- A high incidence of microsatellite instability-low (MSI-L) was observed compared to normal tissue.
- STR loci D18S51, VWA, and FGA were the most frequently altered.
Conclusions:
- Cancer tissues frequently display microsatellite alterations, including MSI-L.
- The suitability of using tumor DNA for forensic applications requires careful consideration due to potential allelic changes.
- Forensic DNA typing results from cancerous tissues demand cautious interpretation.
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