STR stands for "short tandem repeat" and is a common molecular biology method used to compare allele repeats at specific loci in DNA between two or more samples. STR analysis is a tool in forensic analysis that evaluates specific STR regions found on nuclear DNA. The variable (polymorphic) nature of the STR regions that are analyzed for forensic testing intensifies the discrimination between one DNA profile and another. In the United States, 13 autosomal STR loci are now accepted as the system used for forensic purposes. STR profiles are also used to authenticate cell lines in biomedical research.
In addition, STR is an acronym used in the hotel industry that stands for "Smith Travel Research". It is a report from Smith Travel Research Inc. that can be used to compare a hotels performance with that of its peers. STR measures occupied room nights, or units sold into the market that are recognized as revenue.
