Stabilizing DNA Amplification for Degraded Samples
Forensic DNA analysis depends on reliable amplification, but degraded or trace samples often limit the effectiveness of traditional methods. This poster examined whether Catalytic Hairpin Assembly, an enzyme-free and isothermal DNA amplification technique, could provide a viable alternative to polymerase chain reaction for forensic applications, particularly when working with compromised DNA.
Presented at the 2025 SPARK! (Showcase of Projects, Art, Research, and Knowledge) Graduate Poster Exhibition, this research was developed by Taniya Robin, a Master of Science student in Forensic Science at Rutgers University–Camden. The project explored how cationic copolymers could enhance DNA amplification performance, offering potential improvements in sensitivity, stability, and resistance to degradation. The abstract appears below.
Abstract: Enhancing Catalytic Hairpin Assembly for Forensic DNA Profiling
Catalytic Hairpin Assembly (CHA) is an enzyme-free, isothermal DNA amplification method that utilizes complementary DNA hairpins to achieve high-efficiency signal amplification. CHA is a promising alternative to polymerase chain reaction (PCR). PCR, the gold standard for forensic DNA profiling, amplifies short tandem repeat (STR) markers by enzymatically replicating specific DNA regions through cyclic denaturation, annealing, and extension steps. Still, challenges remain in improving PCR kinetics, sensitivity, and resistance to nuclease degradation, which are critical factors for forensic DNA fingerprinting. Despite its reliability, PCR requires high-quality DNA samples, and degraded or low-quantity DNA often hinders its efficiency.
This study investigates the potential of cationic copolymers, specifically chitosan, to enhance CHA-based amplification for forensic applications. Chitosan, a positively charged polymer, stabilizes DNA interactions, accelerates CHA reaction kinetics, and protects DNA components from enzymatic degradation. The research aims to accelerate CHA process kinetics, improve the specificity and sensitivity of initiator recognition, and enhance the stability of CHA components against nucleases.
By integrating cationic copolymers into CHA-based amplification, this study seeks to improve forensic DNA profiling, offering a viable alternative to traditional PCR-based methods for analyzing degraded and trace DNA samples.
Graduate Poster Exhibition at SPARK!
The Graduate Poster Exhibition celebrates the research and creative work of the graduate community, showcasing everything from prose and code to original research and artistic expression. As part of SPARK! (Showcase of Projects, Art, Research, and Knowledge), a reimagining of Research Week, the exhibition highlights the depth, range, and impact of graduate scholarship and invites the campus community to engage with ideas taking shape across disciplines.
Investigating the Truth: The Forensic Science Program
The Master of Science in Forensic Science program at Rutgers University–Camden offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers as forensic science practitioners or for further graduate and professional studies. Emphasizing a research-focused approach, the program provides specialized courses and laboratory experiences in forensic chemistry, toxicology, and DNA profiling. Students gain hands-on experience with techniques commonly used in forensic laboratories, ensuring they are well-versed in current technologies and methodologies. Additionally, the program encourages participation in conferences and field experiences, facilitating valuable networking opportunities within the forensic science community.
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