Genetic profiles and sex identification of found-dead wolves determined by the use of an 11-loci PCR multiplex

A previously described canine-specific 9-STR multiplex, now including two markers for sex determination, was tested for the genotyping of 23 wolves from Northern and Central Portugal. The samples were collected at necropsies and presented varying states of preservation. Complete profiles were obtained in 74% of the samples, partial profiles in 22% and one completely null profile. This survey revealed 15 alleles not previously described in dogs, distributed among 6 STR loci. It is shown that this genotyping system, previously tested in domestic dogs, can be reliably used for obtaining complete genetic profiles in wolves with a matching probability of 2.45 × 10−9 and compatible sex identification, even in sub-optimal samples. Moreover, a population structure analysis using the observed genotypes revealed that this multiplexed 11-loci panel may potentially be used for discriminating between wolves and dogs.