Allelic Ladders for Standardization of STR Genotyping of White-Tailed Deer

NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Short Tandem Repeat (STR) loci consist of short, repetitive sequence elements ranging from 2 to 5 base pairs (bp) in length distributed throughout mammalian genomes (microsatellites). STR genotypes can be determined from polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products of less 500 bp using relatively degraded DNA templates. STR fragments of discrete lengths are detected by electrophoretic separation of fluorescently labeled PCR products. However, a major challenge in STR genotyping is the accurate comparison of results obtained on different genotyping platforms whether from the same or different laboratories. An allelic ladder for standardization of STR genotyping builds the foundation for Phase II studies to calibrate allele assignment on commonly used genotyping platforms. This technology will be applicable to wildlife management as well as forensic testing in poaching cases. We anticipate revenue generation from the competitive advantage we will have in offering standardized genotyping tests. Additional future revenues may be generated from production and sale of the ladder and/or licensing to strategic partners. Standardization of allele assignment will also facilitate the development and utilization of national white-tailed deer identification databases important for tracking population distribution and disease epidemics.