Multiplex amplification and analysis of selected STR loci

Abstract

The present invention provides a means to identify the alleles present in a DNA-containing sample by providing subsets of loci for amplification by multiplex PCR. The loci include the thirteen CODIS short tandem repeat (STR) loci and amelogenin. The loci within each subset are grouped so that, upon PCR amplification, the amplicons produced within a given subset do not overlap. Differential labeling of subsets makes it possible to further group the subsets into compound multiplexes for co-amplification in a single reaction vessel, and analysis in a single electrophoretic channel.

We claim:  
     
         1 . A method of determining fragment lengths of alleles present at a plurality of loci in a DNA-containing sample, comprising the steps of: 
 a) obtaining a DNA-containing sample to be analyzed;    b) amplifying by compound multiplex PCR a plurality of loci comprising FGA, vWA, TH01, TPOX, CSF1PO, D3S1358, D5S818, D7S820, D8S1179, D13S317, D16S539, D18S51, and D21 S11, wherein said compound multiplex PCR is carried out using a plurality of primer pairs each of which is specific for one of said loci, at least one primer of each of said primer pairs being labeled with a detectable label, and wherein said step of amplifying produces a mixture of labeled amplicons, and    c) analyzing by electrophoresis said mixture of labeled amplicons, wherein said step of analyzing allows the determination of said fragment lengths of alleles present at said plurality of loci in said DNA-containing sample.