USING MULTIPLEX PCR AMPLIFICATION AND TYPING KITS FOR THE ANALYSIS OFDNA EVIDENCE IN A SERIAL KILLER CASE

Analysis of DNA evidence in a serial killer case was performed using t he AmpliType(R) HLA-DQ alpha-, AmpliType(R) PM-, and the GenePrint(TM) STR Multiplex System PCR Amplification Kits. In addition, a sex typin g procedure using the X-Y homologous gene amelogenin was carried out. DNA profiles from a single hair with attached sheath material, recover ed from underneath the seat cover of the suspect's car seat were compa red with DNA profiles derived from reference head hairs from a homicid e victim. From the evidentiary sample only 9 ng of human DNA could be recovered. In a sample, where the quantity of DNA becomes a critical i ssue a powerful route is the simultaneous amplification of several loc i (multiplex PCR). This is the first report where commercially availab le multiplex PCR amplification and typing kits have been introduced fo r the analysis of DNA evidence in a serial killer case and the analysi s has been admitted in court.