Forensic DNA Analysis: Massively Parallel Sequencing Workflows
Promega offers solutions for forensic DNA analysis using a massively parallel sequencing (MPS) workflow. We provide preprocessing reagents and automation-friendly DNA isolation systems for processing casework samples in a streamlined workflow. The PowerQuant® System provides accurate, human-specific DNA quantitation. PowerSeq® products allow target amplification of short tandem repeats (STRs) for MPS analysis of both Y-chromosome and autosomal DNA, as well as for preparation of Illumina® sequencing libraries for mitochondrial control region DNA.
Massively Parallel Sequencing Product Groups
Preprocessing and Differential Extraction
Reagents to help you pretreat swabs and storage card punches prior to direct amplification, preprocess challenging casework samples and easily separate sperm and epithelial cells.
DNA Isolation
DNA extraction systems that allow you to yield pure, intact DNA and save time with automation.
Human Specific DNA Quantitation
Systems to help you determine human genomic DNA concentration prior to STR amplification, assess DNA integrity and detect PCR inhibitors.
Target Amplification and Library Prep
Reagents to facilitate library prep and amplification of the mitochondrial control region.
Top Massively Parallel Sequencing Products for Your Lab
PowerSeq® 46GY System
Combined globally used autosomal STR loci with 23 Y-STR loci in a massively parallel sequencing (MPS) application.
PS4600
PowerSeq® Quant MS System
Quantification of MiSeq® platform compatible MPS libraries.
PS5000
PowerSeq® CRM Nested System, Custom
Produce MPS libraries ready for mtDNA analysis.
AX5810
Massively Parallel Sequencing for Forensic DNA Analysis
Traditionally, capillary electrophoresis (CE) has been the method of choice for analyzing short tandem repeats (STRs) for human identification. Although CE methods continue to evolve in terms of increasing sensitivity and the ability to work with degraded or poor-quality DNA, the technique still faces some challenges.
Next-generation sequencing (NGS), or massively parallel sequencing (MPS), enables the simultaneous analysis of hundreds of genetic markers, considerably more than current CE technologies. In addition to providing information on the size of the repeated regions, as CE does, MPS determines the underlying DNA sequence of each region. In doing so, MPS offers a solution to the biggest challenges facing CE methods, such as distinguishing true allele variation from PCR artifacts, interpreting mixtures, and obtaining usable profiles from degraded DNA.
A popular application of MPS in forensics is the sequencing of mitochondrial DNA—either the variable control region or the whole mitochondrial genome—with increased mixture deconvolution and heteroplasmy resolution compared to traditional methods. Although adoption of MPS workflows by forensic laboratories has been slow, the technology holds great promise for increasing the accuracy and throughput of forensic DNA analysis. Future advancements in MPS to further lower the cost will encourage more widespread adoption and consequent validation of forensic MPS methods.
