PGM, EsD, AK, GLO
Definition
The classical RBC isoenzyme panel: phosphoglucomutase, esterase D, adenylate kinase, glyoxalase I. All polymorphic, all typed by starch-gel or isoelectric-focusing electrophoresis of haemolysate.
- Enzymes covered
- Phosphoglucomutase, esterase D, adenylate kinase, glyoxalase I
- Sample type
- Red blood cell haemolysate
- Method
- Starch-gel or isoelectric-focusing electrophoresis
- Property exploited
- Genetic polymorphism for individualisation
Common questions
Why has DNA analysis largely replaced this isoenzyme panel?+
DNA typing offers far higher discriminating power, works from smaller and more degraded samples, and does not require the enzyme activity to remain intact, whereas isoenzyme markers degrade quickly and give comparatively weak individualisation.
Is this isoenzyme panel still used in any forensic casework today?+
It is now mainly of historical and case-review interest, occasionally relevant when re-examining older case files or blood typing records predating routine DNA profiling, rather than as a current primary identification method.
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