VNTR polymorphism in the Buenos Aires, Argentina, metropolitan population.

VNTR loci provide a wealth of information for human genetic research, ranging from gene mapping to paternity testing and forensic identification. In this study we report the construction, validation, and analysis of the first local genetic database for VNTR markers for Argentina. A sample of the metropolitan population of Buenos Aires was typed by means of six VNTR systems. Allele frequencies and expected heterozygosity were calculated. The sample set was further tested for departures from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and power of exclusion. Allele frequency distributions are compatible with previously reported data on Caucasian populations, and no departures from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were detected.