Simply Forensic Reference Library

Massively Parallel Sequencing

Forensic DNA & Genetics

Definition. A sequencing approach that reads many DNA targets or fragments in parallel, often called next-generation sequencing.

How the term is used

Forensic assays may analyze sequence-level STR variation, SNPs or mitochondrial genomes with suitable validation and bioinformatics.

Forensic example

Two same-length STR alleles are distinguished by a sequence difference.

Interpretation limitation

Sequencing does not eliminate mixture, contamination or low-template interpretation problems.

References and further reading

SWGDAM guidelines for forensic DNA analysis. The explanation and example are original educational summaries; consult the cited material and current laboratory guidance for authoritative application.

Related glossary terms

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