DNAprint Genomics (DNAG)

[mingwan0]

Human identification project update:

http://diagnosticscrc.org/CDxAdmin/AnnRep2003.pdf

The short-term objectives of this project are to identify SNPs responsible for characteristics such as pigmentation by comparison of DNA sequences in population samples of differing phenotypes. This will be achieved by a combination of database mining and comparative genomics to investigate candidate genes for SNPs associated with particular phenotypes (eg hair colour). This will constitute a patentable ID profile with enormous value to the forensics industry where such information would greatly simplify and better direct forensic investigations.

MILESTONES FOR 2002-2003

Recruitment of volunteers to establish DNA database for human identification

• Volunteers have been recruited by public media advertising and QUT staff and students.

Ongoing collection of samples from study subjects

• Approximately 250 venipuncture blood samples have been collected from volunteers to date.

Identification of further pigmentation gene SNPs by database mining

• Approximately ten additional pigmentation genes have been identified by database mining.

Identification of candidate pigmentation gene SNPs and analyse in the population samples

• Approximately 250 SNPs (100 coding, 100 5’- and 50 3’- untranslated) have been identified in 25 genes by database mining.

• Twelve SNPs have been analysed in population samples.

Identification of candidate genes for facial morphology

• Approximately 20 genes have been identified as potential genes involved in facial morphology based on animal models.

PLANNED ACTIVITIES

Milestones for 2003-2004

• Identification of pigmentation, height and facial morphology gene SNPs by database mining.

• Identification candidate pigmentation, height and facial morphology gene SNPs.

• Analysis of SNPs in the population samples.

• Integrate these activities with Project 6 in a combined ‘Genome Diagnostics’ project.

Milestones for the period after 30 June 2004

• Analysis of subset of population samples using SNP chip technology.

• Analysis of the SNP chip data.

• Screening of SNPs significantly associated with phenotype in a larger population group.