Field Testing of Collection Cards for Cannabis Sativa Samples With a Single Hexanucleotide DNA Marker

• NCJ Number: 236199
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 56 Issue: 5 Dated: September 2011 Pages: 1245-1249
• Author(s): Lindsay Allgeier, M.S.; John Hemenway, B.S.; Nicholas Shirley, B.S.; Tommy LaNier, Ph.D.; Heather Miller Coyle, Ph.D.
• Date Published: September 2011
• Length: 5 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: Office of National Drug Control Policy
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: 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.

Annotation

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.

Abstract

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. (Published Abstract)