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Y-STR analysis

Definition

Short tandem repeat profiling targeting the male-specific Y chromosome. Used when female victim DNA overwhelms the autosomal profile in a mixture, allowing isolation of the male contributor's genetic signature.

Related terms

Azoospermia
The absence of spermatozoa in ejaculate, whether due to obstructive causes (post-vasectomy) or non-obstructive causes (spermatogenic failure). Affects roughly 1% of men...
Differential extraction
A DNA extraction method used for sexual assault evidence that separates sperm cells from epithelial cells before cell lysis, yielding two DNA...
Double-swab technique
DNA collection method in which a wet swab is applied to the wound perimeter first to rehydrate and collect biological material, followed...
Epithelial cell fraction
The non-sperm cellular material in a sexual assault sample. Contains skin and mucosal cells from both victim and any perpetrator who made...
Timing window
The period after an assault during which a specific locus is likely to yield viable foreign DNA. Windows vary substantially by locus:...

Explained in

  • Swabbing Technique and DNA YieldShort tandem repeat profiling targeting the male-specific Y chromosome. Used when female victim DNA overwhelms the autosomal profile in a mixture, allowing iso...

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