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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 from ejaculated semen, resulting from obstructive causes (vasectomy, ductal blockage) or non-obstructive causes (testicular failure). Azoospermic semen contains...
Differential Extraction
A two-step DNA extraction procedure used when a stain contains both sperm cells and non-sperm epithelial cells. The first step lyses epithelial...
Double-Swab Technique
A collection method for dried biological stains in which a moistened swab rehydrates and lifts the stain from the surface, followed immediately...
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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