Massive parallel sequencing in forensics: advantages, issues, technicalities, and prospects

Int J Legal Med. 2020 Jul;134(4):1291-1303. doi: 10.1007/s00414-020-02294-0. Epub 2020 May 25.

Abstract

In the last decade, next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology, alternatively massive parallel sequencing (MPS), was applied to all fields of biological research. Its introduction to the field of forensics was slower, mainly due to lack of accredited sequencers, kits, and relatively higher sequencing error rates as compared with standardized Sanger sequencing. Currently, a majority of the problematic issues have been solved, which is proven by the body of reports in the literature. Here, we discuss the utility of NGS sequencing in forensics, emphasizing the advantages, issues, the technical aspects of the experiments, commercial solutions, and the potentially interesting applications of MPS.

Keywords: MPS; NGS; Nanopore sequencing; Nucleic acids; Sequencing by synthesis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Forensic Sciences*
  • High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing / methods*
  • High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing / trends*
  • Sequence Analysis, DNA / methods*
  • Sequence Analysis, DNA / trends*