Amplification of Short Tandem Repeat Loci Using PCR

Short tandem repeat (STR) loci consist of repetitive elements of 3-7 nucleotides. The STR loci, which are numerous in the human genome, are highly polymorphic in length and may also vary in the sequences of the repetitive elements. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) makes it possible to analyze very small amounts (nanograms) of DNA. STR loci from partly degraded DNA may be successfully amplified because the STR loci to be amplified are very short, only 100-400 bp. The PCR method is much faster than previous DNA methods. Investigations of the polymorphism of STR loci using PCR, thus, is of great value in identity and genetic testing.