Y-STR analysis involves the examination of DNA that is present on the Y chromosome of males and is inherited only by males from their fathers. The male-specific nature of this test is advantageous because it ignores any female DNA present in a sample. Y-STR analysis is therefore often used in sexual assault cases. Orchid Cellmark uses the Y-filer kit from Promega.
Y-STR forensic analysis is recommended in the following instances:
- Sexual Assault cases where there may be DNA from multiple males present
- A case in which the female DNA component is large enough to mask the male DNA component (e.g. fingernail scrapings from a female victim)
- Sexual Assault cases where a sample has screened positive for semen, but no spermatozoa are observed
- Any case where routine STR testing yielded a male result at the gender marker, Amelogenin, but no other STR profile was observed or the STR profile was below threshold
- Any case where fingernail clippings, bite marks and breast swabs are being tested. These samples cannot be separated into male and female DNA cell types using regular STR techniques.
Although Y-STR testing may not be suitable for every case, it is a proven technology that is useful when other testing methods have been unsuccessful or provided inconclusive data. Orchid Cellmark is committed to high quality, accurate and timely testing. A detailed written report will be issued for every case.
For a brochure on Orchid Cellmark’s Y-STR Analysis services, please click
here.
To submit a case, click
here. Questions? Please call
1-866-TEST-DNA (837-8362).