Infrared fluorescent detection of D1S80 alleles

A genetic locus D1S80 containing a variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) has been used extensively in forensic analysis and paternity testing. In the current research, the D1S80 locus was amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology and the alleles detected using a high sensitivity infrared (IR) fluorescence automated DNA sequencer. IR-labeled amplification products were generated using oligonucleotide primers which were covalently linked to an infrared fluorescent dye (IRD41) at the 5'-end. Human genomic DNA (1.0 ng or less) isolated from blood and various simulated forensic samples was successfully amplified using this technology. Allelic bands were detected by incorporation of the IR fluorescent dye into PCR products. Both Long Ranger and polyacrylamide denaturing gels permitted clear resolution of individual alleles that differ by only one repeat unit. In the smaller gels a separation distance of only 15 cm allowed separation of the alleles in less than 2 h from sample loading to visualization. This system combines IR fluorescence chemistry and laser technology thus eliminating the need for post-electrophoretic gel handling for the detection of D1S80 alleles. Real-time detection is valuable for immediate visualization of the data and the alleles are displayed as familiar autoradiogram-like images which can also be analyzed by computer. By loading a 64-lane gel twice it is possible to type at least 120 samples in 1 day using a single gel.