Short tandem repeats — how microsatellites became the currency of forensic genetics

Abstract

Short tandem repeats (STRs), also known as microsatellites, are the primary markers of forensic genetics for developing investigative leads in criminal cases and humanitarian efforts. Their variation in length and sequence provides genetic information even in samples of low quantity and quality, enabling high resolution for identification and attribution purposes, and culminating in the development of national DNA databases. Bruce Budowle and Antti Sajantila reflect on how short tandem repeats (STRs) became the primary markers of forensic genetics, including for developing investigative leads in criminal cases and humanitarian efforts.