TITLE:
Investigating Biological Relationships in Burkina Faso Using DNA Testing
AUTHORS:
Bapio Valérie Elvira Jean Télesphore Bazie, Moussa Ouattara, Serge Théophile Soubeiga, Abdou Azaque Zoure, Prosper Bado, Abel Sorgho, Touwendpoulimdé Isabelle Kiendrebeogo, Lassina Traore, Soumaïla Sawadogo, Luc Zongo, Théodora M. Zohoncon, Florencia W. Djigma, Théophane Albert T. Yonli, Mahamoudou Sanou, Jacques Simpore
KEYWORDS:
DNA, STR, Identification, Genetic Fingerprint, Burkina Faso
JOURNAL NAME:
American Journal of Molecular Biology,
Vol.15 No.1,
January
24,
2025
ABSTRACT: DNA testing for biological relationships is becoming increasingly common in Burkina Faso. STR analysis remains the most reliable technique for resolving disputes or claims in court regarding biological relationships. This study aimed to establish the links of biological relationships between subjects by analyzing 21 STR loci. The participants were 14 individuals referred to CERBA by the Justice in 2022. Oral or blood samples were taken for each subject. DNA was extracted, and the analysis of DNA polymorphism by PowerPlex® 21 Kit (Part No. DC8902) was performed by capillary electrophoresis on the ABI PRISM 3130 sequencer. DNA profiles were compiled using the GeneMapper IDX software version 1.2. Of the fourteen subjects examined, twelve of these samples had complete genetic profiles, while the other two had partial and absent profiles. The results confirmed the inclusion of three cases of Paternity, one case of maternity, one case of a relationship of brotherhood, and the exclusion of one case of maternity and one case of a relationship of brotherhood. DNA tests improve the resolution of filiations, but they require ethical and cultural awareness and a strengthened legal framework to prevent and protect society.