Validating Multiplexes for Use in Conjunction With Modern Interpretation Strategies

In response to requests from the forensic community, commercial companies are generating larger, more sensitive, and more discriminating STR multiplexes. These multiplexes are now applied to a wider range of samples including complex multi-person mixtures. In parallel there is an overdue reappraisal of profile interpretation methodology. Aspects of this reappraisal include 1) the need for a quantitative understanding of allele and stutter peak heights and their variability; 2) an interest in reassessing the utility of smaller peaks below the often used analytical threshold; 3) a need to understand not just the occurrence of peak drop-in but also the height distribution of such peaks; and 4) a need to understand the limitations of the multiplex-interpretation strategy pair implemented. (Publisher abstract modified)