ABSTRACT
Objective To genotype mixed samples with next generation sequencing and evaluate its prospects in forensic DNA application. Methods Three mixed biological samples from rapes cases and their reference samples were collected. DNA was extracted using the MagAttract M48 DNA Manual Kit(200). The ForenSeqTMDNA Signature Prep Kit was used for library preparation, and next generation sequencing was performed on the MiSeq FGx system. The ForenSeqTMUniversal Analysis v1.2.1 software was used for data analysis. NGS-based STR results were compared with CE-based genotypes. Results A single length polymorphic STR allele in the mixed profile could be recognized as two sequence polymorphic STR alleles from different donors, which would assist mixed profile analysis. Such phenomenon was observed in D3S1358, D9S1122 and D13S317 in this work. Conclusion Our results suggested that precision STR genotyping of mixed samples based on NGS can provide more information and hints for mixed STR profile separation.
ABSTRACT
Objective To establish a SYBR Green real-time PCR detection method with tissue-specific miRNAs and explore a novel approach for forensic body fluid identification. Methods The frequently reported 6 standard miRNAs were synthesized to establish a SYBR Green method, and verify with body fluid. The relative expression data for the 6 miRNAs were obtained using SYBR Green real-time PCR method in peripheral blood, menstrual blood, saliva and semen. Results The assays showed that miRNA205 permitted the unequivocal identification among different fluids. miRNA451 and miRNA144 could be used to distinguish blood from non-blood. Menstrual blood or peripheral blood could be identified through miRNA214. miRNA888 and miRNA891 was highly expressed in semen. Conclusion The results of this study indicate that miRNA SYBR Green profiling may provide a feasible and effective approach to body fluid identification for forensic casework.
ABSTRACT
NESCA, a newly discovered signaling adapter protein in the NGF-pathway, contains a RUN domain at its N-terminus. Here we report the crystal structure of the NESCA RUN domain determined at 2.0-Å resolution. The overall fold of the NESCA RUN domain comprises nine helices, resembling the RUN domain of RPIPx and the RUN1 domain of Rab6IP1. However, compared to the other RUN domains, the RUN domain of NESCA has significantly different surface electrostatic distributions at the putative GTPase-interacting interface. We demonstrate that the RUN domain of NESCA can bind H-Ras, a downstream signaling molecule of TrkA, with high affinity. Moreover, NESCA RUN can directly interact with TrkA. These results provide new insights into how NESCA participates in the NGF-TrkA signaling pathway.