Abstract: Objective To explore the effectiveness of direct amplification for the STR analysis of cartilage, and to accelerate the effectiveness of disaster victim identification. Methods Eighty-eight cartilage samples were directly amplified by PowerPlex?誖21 kit, and the results of genotyping were compared with that obtained by the magnetic beads method. Results In 88 cartilage samples, the STR genotypes were successfully detected from 84 samples by direct amplification and magnetic beads method, and both the results of genotyping by two method were consistent. Conclusion Direct amplification with PowerPlex?誖21 kit can be used for STR genotyping of cartilages. This method is operated easily and promptly, which has a potential application in the individual identification of mass disasters.

Key words: forensic genetics, cartilage, genotyping techniques, direct amplification, individual identification