LUS+: Extension of the LUS designator concept to differentiate most sequence alleles for 27 STR loci

Abstract

We previously proposed representation of STR sequences using the LUS to expedite use of sequence-level information in probabilistic genotyping. To consider the greater diversity of allele sequences now known, here we surveyed datasets representing >3000 individuals from 12 population groups. From 1059 ForenSeq Universal Analysis Software (UAS) range alleles detected for 27 STR loci, we identified additional motifs that could be referenced in designations to differentiate >99 % of alleles. To further assist labs with probabilistic interpretation of sequence-based STRs, we include lookup tables for conversion of UAS range sequences to LUS/LUS+ alleles, and provide LUS and LUS+ allele frequency tables.

Keywords

• Next generation sequencing (NGS)
• Massively parallel sequencing (MPS)
• Short tandem repeat (STR)
• Probabilistic genotyping