Population genetic analysis of 12 X-STRs in a Bahraini population sample

To date, there are very limited genetic studies conducted on the Kingdom of Bahrain and this is one of the first studies conducted to evaluate the 12 X-STRs included in the Investigator X-12 QS kit. Bahrain is a small archipelago located in the Arabian Gulf. X-STRs are very informative in population genetics studies, human identification and complex kinship analysis. One hundred and fifty-six (156) buccal swabs were collected using cotton from non-relatives Bahraini males from four different regions of Bahrain. DNA was processed using QIAsymphony SP instrument following quantification with Investigator Quantiplex HYres Kit in the 7500 Real-Time PCR System and detected in ABI 3500xl Genetic Analyzer. Analysis was done using different statistical softwares to obtain allele frequencies and haplotype frequencies-based upon the available four clusters of Linkage Groups (LGs)- and the forensic parameters.. Results indicated the diversity of the Bahraini population in terms of high Power of Discrimination (PD) and Probability of Match (PM) values obtained. The combined values of each forensic parameter such as cPDM, Mean exclusion chance (CMEC) Kruger, CMEC Kishida, and CMEC Desmarais as well as CMEC Desmarais Duo, were 0.9999983, 9999979, 0.9999939, 0.9999996 and 0.9999514 respectively based on the allele and haplotype frequencies. No shared profiles were observed. Number of non-standard alleles and null samples were obtained with more profoundly in locus DXS10148. We have conducted phylogenetic tree as well as multidimensional scale to analyze the Interpopulation diversity between Bahraini population and nine other populations and found out they reflect the geographical and social background of the region. Overall, the results confirm the importance of X-STRs in discriminating between individuals among Bahraini population and in establishing DNA databases for forensic and kinship studies.