STRmix Team Releases FaSTR DNA 1.3 with better artefact detection

The STRmix team has released FaSTR DNA 1.3, adding improved artefact detection, replicate grouping and a new Y-STR number of contributors tool. The update is aimed at faster, more configurable DNA profile analysis for forensic laboratories and casework.

Why it matters: - FaSTR DNA 1.3 is designed to speed up DNA profile analysis while giving forensic analysts more control over difficult samples. - The update adds tools that can reduce manual review time and improve reporting consistency in casework. - More information

What happened: - The STRmix team released FaSTR DNA 1.3 today. - The new version adds improved artefact detection and filtering. - FaSTR DNA 1.3 adds the ability to group replicates. - The software now includes a number of contributors estimation tool for Y-STR profiles.

The details: - FaSTR DNA 1.3 combines a graphical interface with laboratory-customizable rules to analyze raw DNA data from capillary electrophoresis instruments and multiplex DNA profiling kits. - The software assigns number of contributor estimates during analysis. - The update adds export of a consensus reference profile. - FaSTR DNA 1.3 can detect absence of primer flare in all sample types. - The software can add notes to EPGs and snips for PDF reports. - Users can create a subset of an analyzed project for case management. - The peaks table now supports filtered values in its columns. - FaSTR DNA 1.3 detects cross-channel artefacts. - Known artefact detection now includes positional artefacts. - The update adds more customization options for sample reports and exports. - Pull-up detection now includes display of pull-up indicators for parent peaks. - The software provides details on ambiguity in a peak, including stutter type, stutter ratio, composite stutter, pull-up proportion, N/shoulder peak, peak morphology, stochastic homozygous threshold, heterozygote imbalance and known artefact information. - When analyst intervention is needed, FaSTR DNA signals the need for a decision and records the analyst’s changes. - The analysis algorithms are conceptually adapted from OSIRIS analysis software from the National Center for Biotechnology Information.

Between the lines: - Dr. Meng-Han Lin, Senior Scientist on the STRmix team, said the release was driven by extensive engagement with end users to target real-world needs and casework operations. - The feature set points to a push toward more automation, while keeping analysts in the loop when profiles remain ambiguous. - Used with STRmix and DBLR, FaSTR DNA is positioned as part of a broader end-to-end DNA analysis and intelligence workflow.

What's next: - The STRmix team says all commercially released versions of FaSTR DNA can open and analyze the tested .fsa files generated with the latest security-patched Thermo Fisher Scientific data collection software. - The compatibility testing covered files from the 3500 Genetic Analyzer and SeqStudio Flex Genetic Analyzer. - The tested files were generated using the GlobalFiler and PowerPlex Y23 kits. - Forensic labs can review the new release and workflow details through the company’s product page.

The bottom line: - FaSTR DNA 1.3 extends the STRmix team’s forensic software suite with more automated artefact handling and more reporting options for DNA analysts.