Suitability of PCR methods for forensic investigation

The PCR method has been applied to amplify a Variable Number Tandem Repeat (VNTR) sequence located at the 3′ end of the apolipoprotein B (ApoB) gene. The study was conducted on an Italian population sample and in a 3-generation family of 13 members, whose relationships were previously established using conventional blood systems. The allele frequencies found were compared with those reported in the literature. The results also confirmed the Mendelian inheritance of the alleles and the suitability of the PCR method for forensic purposes.