Abstract: Low template DNA(LTDNA) has been widely applied in the field of forensic science in recent years. However,the application of low copy number(LCN) analysis is still controversial in certain forensic casework because of its inherent limiting factors. This paper focus on the definition of LCN and LTDNA,the validity and application of LCN in forensic science,methods of typing,quality control,replicate analy-sis,detection thresholds and then reviews the latest development of LCN in forensic science.

Key words: forensic genetics, templates, genetic, review[publication type], low copy number