Stutter
Definition
An amplification artefact at an STR target, commonly differing by one repeat from an allele. Dropout concerns a true contributor allele not being detected, while stutter is a recognised amplification artefact.
- Context
- DNA profile interpretation
For example, a peak one repeat away from a contributor allele may require stutter assessment rather than being assumed to represent another contributor.
Their assessment depends on the method and profile conditions.
Do not label every unexplained or missing peak by appearance alone. Controls, thresholds and validated interpretation rules matter.
Related terms
- Frameshift
- A shift in a coding reading frame caused by a length change not divisible by three. A mismatch concerns a non-standard base...
- Germline Mutation
- A sequence change in a lineage that can contribute to offspring. A somatic mutation occurs in a body-cell lineage and is usually...
- Semiconservative Replication
- Copying in which each daughter DNA duplex contains a parental strand and a newly synthesised strand. The principle describes replication, not an...
- Somatic Mutation
- A change occurring in a body-cell lineage, usually not transmitted to offspring. The category does not by itself identify the timing, cause...