Field Testing of Collection Cards for Cannabis sativa Samples With a Single Hexanucleotide DNA Marker* ,†
Lindsay Allgeier M.S.
Forensic Science Department, Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice & Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven, CT 06516.
Search for more papers by this authorJohn Hemenway B.S.
Forensic Science Department, Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice & Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven, CT 06516.
Search for more papers by this authorNicholas Shirley B.S.
Forensic Science Department, Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice & Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven, CT 06516.
Search for more papers by this authorTommy LaNier Ph.D.
National Marijuana Initiative, HIDTA-ONDCP Suite 1900, 1010 Second Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101.
Search for more papers by this authorHeather Miller Coyle Ph.D.
Forensic Science Department, Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice & Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven, CT 06516.
Search for more papers by this authorLindsay Allgeier M.S.
Forensic Science Department, Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice & Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven, CT 06516.
Search for more papers by this authorJohn Hemenway B.S.
Forensic Science Department, Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice & Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven, CT 06516.
Search for more papers by this authorNicholas Shirley B.S.
Forensic Science Department, Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice & Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven, CT 06516.
Search for more papers by this authorTommy LaNier Ph.D.
National Marijuana Initiative, HIDTA-ONDCP Suite 1900, 1010 Second Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101.
Search for more papers by this authorHeather Miller Coyle Ph.D.
Forensic Science Department, Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice & Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven, 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven, CT 06516.
Search for more papers by this authorFunding provided by the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), National Marijuana Initiative (NMI).
Presented in part at the 62nd Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, February 22–27, 2010, in Seattle, WA; and at the NMI-CAMP Annual Meeting in San Diego, CA.Disclaimer: The research presented here in this manuscript reflects the work and opinions of the authors and not necessarily that of the agencies listed in this article.
Abstract
Abstract: The validity and feasibility of using DNA collection cards in the field for preservation and analysis of Cannabis sativa genotypes were investigated using a highly specific hexanucleotide marker. Collection cards were submitted to the National Marijuana Initiative, which selectively trained and managed the collection of specific types of samples from a variety of participating agencies. Samples collected at seizure sites included fresh marijuana leaf samples, dried “dispensary” samples, U.S. border seizures, and hashish. Using a standardized PCR kit with custom-labeled oligonucleotide primers specific to marijuana, collection cards produced eight genotypes and 13 different alleles, extremely low baselines, and no cross-reactivity with control plant species. Results were produced from all sample types with the exception of hashish. Plant DNA collection cards represent an easily implementable method for the genetic identification and relatedness of C. sativa street and grow site–seized samples with applications for databasing and market disruption.
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