Validation of capillary electrophoresis for analysis of the X-Y homologousamelogenin gene

Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a versatile technology with tremendous po tential applications in forensic science. A refinement of the traditional s lab-gel, separation occurs in a liquid polymer contained within a capillary . The capillary electrophoresis unit is computer-driven, semi-automating th e loading and analysis of samples. As with any new technology, a full performance assessment is required befor e it may be implemented with confidence. This paper focuses on validation o f CE technology for analysis of a portion of the X-Y homologous amelogenin gene used in gender determination. Typical Y/X ratios of peak heights for m ale samples were determined. Instrument linearity, sample resolution and re producibility were examined. Samples subjected to contamination, extreme en vironmental conditions or extracted from a variety of substrates were also tested by CE. All samples typed correctly. Genetic material from a number o f common non-primate animals was amplified with amelogenin primers. Some sp ecies yielded no product. Products derived from the animal samples that did amplify produced peaks on CE analysis readily distinguishable from those o f human origin.