Abstract

Short tandem repeat (STR) markers are extensively being used for human identification as well as paternity and forensic case work. X-Chromosome STR (X-STR) markers are a powerful complementary system especially in deficiency paternity testing. This study presents development of a new X-chromosomal STR multiplex kit providing short-amplicon (<200 bp) fragments. About 200 samples from Punjabi population were typed for seven X-STR markers: DXS101, DXS6789, DXS7132, DXS7423, DXS8378, GATA172D05 and GATA31E08. A total of 51 alleles were detected in the range of five to 10 alleles for each marker. The data can be used as reference database for Punjabi population along with the current battery of autosomal STR for forensic case work to increase the discrimination capacity and strengthen the existing system.

Key words: X-chromosome short tandem repeats (X-STRs), mini-STRs, Punjabi population.

Abbreviation

STR, Short tandem repeat; X-STR, X-chromosome STR.