Skip to content
< Back to blog

STR markers

Rapid aneuploidy analysis

Rapid aneuploidy analysis | October 3, 2022

A short tandem repeat (STR or microsatellite) is a pattern of two or more nucleotides that are repeated directly adjacent to each other.

The repeats can range in length from 2 to 6 base pairs/repeat. A short tandem repeat polymorphism occurs when homologous STR loci differ in the number of repeats between individuals. By identifying repeats of a specific sequence at specific locations in the genome, it is possible to create a genetic profile of an individual.

When running a QF-PCR assay, STRs are amplified by PCR using the unique sequences of flanking regions as primers. By using fluorescently labelled primers amplified STRs can be identified and quantified on a capillary electrophoresis instrument.

Stutter peaks from STR markers

Stutter peaks are peaks that may be detected primarily one repeat shorter than the true allele. They appear as a result of strand slippage during DNA synthesis. Stutter is less pronounced with larger repeat unit sizes (di- > tri- > tetra repeats). Devyser’s QF-PCR kits include only tetra repeat STRs and the STRs have been carefully selected to provide maximum informativity while generating minimal amount of stutter products.

Contact an expert at Devyser

If you have a question, feel free to send us a message. One of our team members will get in touch with you as soon as possible.

Contact us