Selective quantification of human DNA by real-time PCR of FOXP2

We established a simple quantitative PCR procedure with high specificity and sensitivity using TaqMan probes targeting the FOXP2 sequence. This assay distinguished human and nonhuman, including primates, samples with the exception of mouse, turtle, lizard, and fishes. However, the specific amplification of mouse, lizard, and turtle fragments of FOXP2 could be confirmed by electrophoresis after real-time PCR. Because the CT values obtained for human DNA were not affected by contaminating animal DNA at concentrations up to 30 times that of human DNA, we were able to estimate the concentration of human DNA in mixed specimens. This assay provides a reliable and useful method for routine quantification of human-specific DNA in forensic practice.