Addressing Y-Chromosome Short Tandem Repeat(Y-STR) Allele Nomenclature

Published

November 25, 2008

Author(s)

John M. Butler, Margaret C. Kline, Amy E. Decker

Abstract

Currently 120 different Y-chromosome short tandem repeat (Y-STR) markers are used by various genetic genealogy testing laboratories. In some cases, different laboratories may designate the same Y-STR allele with two different nomenclatures making data comparisons difficult and frustrating due to needed conversion factors. This article explains how STR allele nomenclatures are typically determined, where ambiguity may exist, and how measurement accuracy and consistency can be promoted through use of common reference materials across all genetic genealogy testing laboratories. Comparisons are made to forensic DNA testing and the benefits of a common set of loci and STR allele nomenclatures.

Citation

Journal of Genetic Genealogy

Volume

4

Issue

2

Pub Type

Journals

Keywords

DYS441, DYS442, DYS454, DYS458, DYS481, DYS594, Y-GATA-A10, Y-STR, Y-chromsome

Citation

Butler, J. , Kline, M. and Decker, A. (2008), Addressing Y-Chromosome Short Tandem Repeat(Y-STR) Allele Nomenclature, Journal of Genetic Genealogy (Accessed April 20, 2024)