The performance of Promega's PowerPlex 16 HS DNA amplification kit was evaluated on the criteria of sensitivity, peak ratios at heterozygous loci, baseline noise, stutter ratio, and amplification artifacts, based on the analysis of single-source human DNA samples and a mixture series.
The performance of Promega's PowerPlex 16 HS system (28 cycles) was compared to 8 commercially available STR kits that were previously evaluated by the National Forensic Science Technology Center (NFSTC). The evaluation determined that the PowerPlex 16 HS (32 cycles) yielded the highest RFU values of all the amplification kits assessed. PowerPlex 16 HS outperformed MiniFilerTM and Identifiler amplification kits for the challenged samples. Regarding the peak heights at each concentration, heterozygousity loss at the concentration of 0.25 ng, and alleles below 75 RFUs at 0.125 ngs, the PowerPlex 16 HS and the Identifiler performed similarly. On the negative side, PowerPlex 16 HS displayed a higher baseline noise than all other amplification kits. The limitations on performance varied per kit based on the proprietary chemistry of the kits. Training requirements for the use of the kits are indicated. Regarding health and safety issues in the use of the kits, normal laboratory health and safety practices are required. 2 tables and 3 figures