Irwin,J.A.; Saunier,J.L.; Strouss,K.M.; Sturk,K.A.; Diegoli,T.M.; Just,R.S.; Coble,M.D.; Parson,W.; Parsons,T.J.;

In an effort to increase the quantity, breadth and availability of mtDNA databases suitable for forensic comparisons, we have developed a high-throughput process to generate approximately 5000 control region sequences per year from regional US populations, global populations from which the current US population is derived and global populations currently under-represented in available forensic databases. The system utilizes robotic instrumentation for all laboratory steps from pre-extraction through sequence detection, and a rigorous eight-step, multi-laboratory data review process with entirely electronic data transfer. Over the past 3 years, nearly 10,000 control region sequences have been generated using this approach. These data are being made publicly available and should further address the need for consistent, high-quality mtDNA databases for forensic testing.

Forensic Sci Int Genet 2007 1(2):154-157