Selection of STR loci for forensic identification systems

Short Tandem Repeat (STR) profiling is rapidly growing as a method of individual identification for forensic and other purposes. Several multiplex STR systems are available (e.g. Kimpton et al, 1993), offering matching probabilities of about 10-4. The quadruplex STR system developed in our laboratory and presently in use in forensic casework gives a matching probability of this order in three British populations (Kimpton et al, 1993). We have investigated numerous STR loci for use in further multiplex STR systems. Here we discuss the criteria for locus selection, with particular reference to the repeat sequence at the loci under investigation.