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Short tandem repeat (STR) analysis: why is it the gold standard for DNA identification today?
As technology continues to advance, DNA identification technology has also evolved, and short tandem repeat (STR) analysis has now become the gold standard of identification technology today. Compared with earlier DNA analysis methods, STR analysis not only improves accuracy but also significantly reduces the amount of sample required, which is a breakthrough for forensic science.
The evolution of DNA archives
DNA profiling is the analysis of DNA samples used for legal and investigative purposes. DNA analysis technology has undergone countless changes since it was first invented by Alec Jeffreys in 1985. At the time, RFLP (restriction fragment length diversity) was the main analytical tool, but as demand for samples increased, its efficiency came into question.
"In RFLP technology, due to the relatively high amount of DNA required for analysis, only those cases with sufficient sample size can be processed."
The emergence of STR analysis marks a new era. Unlike RFLP, STR analysis requires a smaller sample size, enabling effective analysis when the number of samples is limited. It uses short segments of DNA (usually 2 to 6 nucleotides), making the technology irreplaceable in today's forensic laboratories.
How STR analysis works
The core of STR analysis is the ability to test multiple DNA loci simultaneously, so that a complete DNA profile of an individual can be quickly obtained. Through its efficient multiplex PCR technology, researchers can analyze dozens of different sites in one experiment, which greatly shortens experimental time. It is worth noting that the results of STR analysis are not only suitable for forensic experiments, but also for non-forensic purposes such as paternity testing.
"The power of STR analysis lies in the high resolution it provides, allowing useful data to be found even in complex mixed samples."
Evolution from RFLP to STR
Before the introduction of STR analysis, scientists tried a variety of techniques to optimize the DNA identification process. For example, the DQ alpha test and AmpFLP attempt to use PCR technology to reduce the need for samples, but both have certain flaws. Eventually, STR analysis replaced these earlier technologies and became the industry standard due to its stability and high resolution.
Current progress and future prospects
With the further development of science and technology, rapid DNA analysis technology has begun to appear, enabling DNA information to be obtained from samples in just 90 minutes. This technology provides new opportunities for instant evidence collection, especially in law enforcement, helping police quickly identify suspects.
"In the future, with the further development of DNA analysis technology, we may be able to apply these technologies in more scenarios, making criminal investigation and evidence collection more efficient."
Conclusion
As genetic research continues to be explored and different techniques introduced, short tandem repeat (STR) analysis has become increasingly dominant in the field of forensic science. It not only provides us with a clear identification path, but also reveals the deeper social and ethical implications behind DNA analysis. In such a data-based era, how should the balance between personal privacy and scientific progress be maintained?
