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Corradini B, Gianfreda D, Ferri G, Ferrari F, Borciani I, Santunione AL, Cecchi R. Forensic species identification: practical guide for animal and plant DNA analysis. Int J Legal Med 2024:10.1007/s00414-024-03284-2. [PMID: 38985195 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-024-03284-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
The importance of non-human DNA in the forensic field has increased greatly in recent years, together with the type of applications. The molecular species identification of animal and botanical material may be crucial both for wildlife trafficking and crime scene investigation. However, especially for forensic botany, several challenges slow down the implementation of the discipline in the routine.Although the importance of molecular analysis of animal origin samples is widely recognized and the same value is acknowledged to the botanical counterpart, the latter does not find the same degree of application.The availability of molecular methods, especially useful in cases where the material is fragmented, scarce or spoiled preventing the morphological identification, is not well known. This work is intended to reaffirm the relevance of non-human forensic genetics (NHFG), highlighting differences, benefits and pitfalls of the current most common molecular analysis workflow for animal and botanical samples, giving a practical guide. A flowchart describing the analysis paths, divided in three major working areas (inspection and sampling, molecular analysis, data processing and interpretation), is provided. More real casework examples of the utility of non-human evidence in forensic investigations should be shared by the scientific community, especially for plants. Moreover, concrete efforts to encourage initiatives in order to promote quality and standardization in the NHFG field are also needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Corradini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Denise Gianfreda
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Ferri
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria Borciani
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Anna Laura Santunione
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Rossana Cecchi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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2
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Doi M, Nakagawa T, Asano M. A practical workflow for forensic species identification using direct sequencing of real-time PCR products. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 51:17. [PMID: 38091117 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08980-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Forensic scientists are often required to identify species of unknown biological samples. Although methods based on sequencing of DNA barcode regions are the gold standard for species identification in single-source forensic samples, they are cumbersome to implement as routine work in forensic laboratories that perform many tests, including human DNA typing. We have developed a species identification workflow that incorporates direct sequencing with real-time PCR products (real-time PCR-direct sequencing) as the technical trick for easy testing in forensic practice. METHOD AND RESULTS Following our workflow, DNA samples from vertebrates, such as mammals, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and fish, were subjected to species identification using vertebrate universal primers targeting each of the four DNA barcode regions. In real-time PCR melting curve analysis, humans and animals (nonhuman) could be differentiated by comparing melting temperatures, and subsequent real-time PCR-direct sequencing contributed to simplified sequencing. Searches against public DNA databases using the obtained sequences were compatible with the origin of the samples, indicating that this method might be used to identify animal species at the genus level. Furthermore, this workflow was effective in actual casework, which provided rapid test results according to the needs of the investigating agencies. CONCLUSIONS The species identification workflow will simply sequence as much as possible and can be integrated into routine forensic practice. The real-time PCR-direct sequencing used in this workflow might be beneficial not only for species identification but also for DNA sequencing by using the Sanger method for a variety of life sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Doi
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Ehime Prefectural Police Headquarters, 2-2 Minamihoribatacho, Matsuyama, Ehime, 790-8573, Japan.
- Department of Legal Medicine, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan.
| | - Toshifumi Nakagawa
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Ehime Prefectural Police Headquarters, 2-2 Minamihoribatacho, Matsuyama, Ehime, 790-8573, Japan
| | - Migiwa Asano
- Department of Legal Medicine, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
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3
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Filip E, Strzała T, Stępień E, Cembrowska-Lech D. Universal mtDNA fragment for Cervidae barcoding species identification using phylogeny and preliminary analysis of machine learning approach. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9133. [PMID: 37277428 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35637-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to use total DNA obtained from bone material to identify species of free-living animals based on the analysis of mtDNA fragments by molecular methods using accurate bioinformatics tools Bayesian approach and the machine learning approach. In our research, we present a case study of successful species identification based on degraded samples of bone, with the use of short mtDNA fragments. For better barcoding, we used molecular and bioinformatics methods. We obtained a partial sequence of the mitochondrial cytochrome b (Cytb) gene for Capreolus capreolus, Dama dama, and Cervus elaphus, that can be used for species affiliation. The new sequences have been deposited in GenBank, enriching the existing Cervidae mtDNA base. We have also analysed the effect of barcodes on species identification from the perspective of the machine learning approach. Machine learning approaches of BLOG and WEKA were compared with distance-based (TaxonDNA) and tree-based (NJ tree) methods based on the discrimination accuracy of the single barcodes. The results indicated that BLOG and WEKAs SMO classifier and NJ tree performed better than TaxonDNA in discriminating Cervidae species, with BLOG and WEKAs SMO classifier performing the best.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Filip
- Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, Wąska 13, 71-415, Szczecin, Poland.
- The Centre for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Strzała
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Animal Science, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Edyta Stępień
- Institute of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Szczecin, Adama Mickiewicza 16, 70-383, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Danuta Cembrowska-Lech
- Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, Wąska 13, 71-415, Szczecin, Poland
- Sanprobi Sp. z o. o. Sp. k., Kurza Stopka 5C, 70-535, Szczecin, Poland
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4
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Zheng Y, Liu G, Wu Q, Tan M, Xue J, Zhang R, Chen D, Xiao Y, Lv M, Liao M, Qu S, Liang W. Development of specific and rapid detection of human DNA by recombinase polymerase amplification assay for forensic analysis. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2023; 66:102903. [PMID: 37290252 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2023.102903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The determination of human-derived samples is very important in forensic investigations and case investigation in order to determine vital information on the suspect and the case. In this study, we established a recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) assay for rapid identification of human-derived components. The sensitivity of the assay was 0.003125 ng, with excellent species specificity, and human-derived DNA could be detected in the presence of non-human-derived components at a ratio of 1:1000. Moreover, the RPA assay had a strong tolerance to inhibitors, in the presence of 800 ng/μL humic acid, 400 ng/μL tannic acid, and 8000 ng/μL collagen. In forensic investigation, common body fluids (blood, saliva, semen, vaginal secretions) are all applicable, and the presence of DNA can be detected from samples after simple alkaline lysis, which greatly shortens the detection time. Four simulation and case samples (aged bones, aged bloodstains, hair, touch DNA) were also successfully applied. The above research results show that the RPA assay constructed in this study can be fully applied to forensic medicine to provide high sensitivity and applicability detection methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazi Zheng
- Department of Forensic Genetics, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Guihong Liu
- Department of Forensic Genetics, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qiushuo Wu
- Department of Forensic Genetics, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mengyu Tan
- Department of Forensic Genetics, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiaming Xue
- Department of Forensic Genetics, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ranran Zhang
- Department of Forensic Genetics, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Dezhi Chen
- Department of Forensic Genetics, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuanyuan Xiao
- Department of Forensic Genetics, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Meili Lv
- Department of Immunology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Miao Liao
- Department of Forensic Genetics, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shengqiu Qu
- Department of Forensic Genetics, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| | - Weibo Liang
- Department of Forensic Genetics, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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Apaa T, Withers AJ, Staley C, Blanchard A, Bennett M, Bremner-Harrison S, Chadwick EA, Hailer F, Harrison SWR, Loose M, Mathews F, Tarlinton R. Sarbecoviruses of British horseshoe bats; sequence variation and epidemiology. J Gen Virol 2023; 104. [PMID: 37319000 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Horseshoe bats are the natural hosts of the Sarbecovirus subgenus that includes SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV- 2. Despite the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is still little known about the underlying epidemiology and virology of sarbecoviruses in their natural hosts, leaving large gaps in our pandemic preparedness. Here we describe the results of PCR testing for sarbecoviruses in the two horseshoe bat species (Rhinolophus hipposideros and R. ferrumequinum) present in Great Britain, collected in 2021-22 during the peak of COVID-19 pandemic. One hundred and ninety seven R. hipposideros samples from 33 roost sites and 277 R. ferrumequinum samples from 20 roost sites were tested. No coronaviruses were detected in any samples from R. ferrumequinum whereas 44 and 56 % of individual and pooled (respectively) faecal samples from R. hipposideros across multiple roost sites tested positive in a sarbecovirus-specific qPCR. Full genome sequences were generated from three of the positive samples (and partial genomes from two more) using Illumina RNAseq on unenriched samples. Phylogenetic analyses showed that the obtained sequences belong to the same monophyletic clade, with >95 % similarity to previously-reported European isolates from R. hipposideros. The sequences differed in the presence or absence of accessory genes ORF 7b, 9b and 10. All lacked the furin cleavage site of SARS-CoV-2 spike gene and are therefore unlikely to be infective for humans. These results demonstrate a lack, or at least low incidence, of SARS-CoV-2 spill over from humans to susceptible GB bats, and confirm that sarbecovirus infection is widespread in R. hipposideros. Despite frequently sharing roost sites with R. ferrumequinum, no evidence of cross-species transmission was found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ternenge Apaa
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone, UK
| | - Amy J Withers
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone, UK
| | - Ceri Staley
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
| | - Adam Blanchard
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
| | - Malcolm Bennett
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
| | - Samantha Bremner-Harrison
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
- Vincent Wildlife Trust, Herefordshire, UK
| | - Elizabeth A Chadwick
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
- Organisms and Environment, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, UK
| | - Frank Hailer
- Organisms and Environment, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, UK
| | - Stephen W R Harrison
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
| | - Matthew Loose
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Fiona Mathews
- School of Life sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Rachael Tarlinton
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
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Mukantayev K, Kanayev D, Zhumabekova S, Shevtsov A, Tursunov K, Mukanov K, Ramankulov Y. Optimization of polymerase chain reaction for the identification of Roe deer, Saiga, and Siberian stag living in Kazakhstan. Vet World 2022; 15:2067-2071. [PMID: 36313838 PMCID: PMC9615498 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.2067-2071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: One of the reasons for the decline in the number of wild species of artiodactyls is poaching and the illegal trading of animal products. Molecular genetic identification of animals from a biological sample effectively proves poaching cases and illegal trade of animal products. This study aimed to develop a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test that allows for species identification of artiodactyl animals that are most often subject to poaching. Materials and Methods: Genomic DNA was extracted from meat and blood samples of animals killed by poachers using commercial kits. Three pairs of primers were designed and used to amplify the cytochrome b gene fragment of Roe deer, Saiga antelope, and Siberian stag. Results: The proposed protocol allows amplification of specific PCR products of 542 bp with Roe deer DNA, 587 bp with Saiga DNA, and 525 bp with Siberian stag DNA. Specificity analysis showed no cross activity with DNA from other animal species. The detection limit of PCR ranged from 15.6 pg to 1.9 pg of DNA in 25 mL of the reaction mixture. Conclusion: Sequencing the amplified products and subsequent comparison with the corresponding reference sequence showed a similarity ranging from 99.99% to 100%. The PCR based on the developed primers demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity when using DNA from homogeneous and heterogeneous animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanatbek Mukantayev
- Laboratory of Immunochemistry and Immunobiotechnology, National Center for Biotechnology, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
| | - Darkhan Kanayev
- Laboratory of Immunochemistry and Immunobiotechnology, National Center for Biotechnology, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
| | - Sholpan Zhumabekova
- Laboratory of Immunochemistry and Immunobiotechnology, National Center for Biotechnology, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
| | - Alexander Shevtsov
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, National Center for Biotechnology, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
| | - Kanat Tursunov
- Laboratory of Immunochemistry and Immunobiotechnology, National Center for Biotechnology, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
| | - Kasim Mukanov
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, National Center for Biotechnology, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
| | - Yerlan Ramankulov
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, National Center for Biotechnology, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
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7
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Ferri G, Corradini B, Gianfreda D, Ferrari F, Silingardi E. Two caseworks for one gene: successful species identification from compromised bone materials with the 12S rRNA. Int J Legal Med 2022; 136:1255-1260. [PMID: 35333964 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02817-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The availability of a reliable molecular assay in species recognition in forensic cases is of paramount importance when visual inspection or morphological methods are not exhaustive, especially from challenging samples. Here, two different caseworks involving bone samples founded during medico-legal outdoor investigations are presented. In order to exclude the human nature of the specimens and to determine the exact species they belong to, we proceeded with the molecular approach trying to generate sequences from the classical mtDNA markers cyt b and COI. However, they both gave critical results. For this reason, a short amplicon of ~ 150 bp of the 12S rRNA gene was used as an alternative.This short fragment was sufficient to identify the biological origin of the bone specimens with a high degree of certainty leading to the exclusion of their human nature. This work highlights the utility of the 12S rRNA and underlines the importance of deepen the choice of alternative shorter markers with respect to the classical ones, in order to achieve species identification even from challenging and degraded material in forensic criminal and wildlife caseworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianmarco Ferri
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Corradini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Denise Gianfreda
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesca Ferrari
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Enrico Silingardi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Arnaout Y, Djelouadji Z, Robardet E, Cappelle J, Cliquet F, Touzalin F, Jimenez G, Hurstel S, Borel C, Picard-Meyer E. Genetic identification of bat species for pathogen surveillance across France. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0261344. [PMID: 34982782 PMCID: PMC8726466 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
With more than 1400 chiropteran species identified to date, bats comprise one-fifth of all mammalian species worldwide. Many studies have associated viral zoonoses with 45 different species of bats in the EU, which cluster within 5 families of bats. For example, the Serotine bats are infected by European Bat 1 Lyssavirus throughout Europe while Myotis bats are shown infected by coronavirus, herpesvirus and paramyxovirus. Correct host species identification is important to increase our knowledge of the ecology and evolutionary pattern of bat viruses in the EU. Bat species identification is commonly determined using morphological keys. Morphological determination of bat species from bat carcasses can be limited in some cases, due to the state of decomposition or nearly indistinguishable morphological features in juvenile bats and can lead to misidentifications. The overall objective of our study was to identify insectivorous bat species using molecular biology tools with the amplification of the partial cytochrome b gene of mitochondrial DNA. Two types of samples were tested in this study, bat wing punches and bat faeces. A total of 163 bat wing punches representing 22 species, and 31 faecal pellets representing 7 species were included in the study. From the 163 bat wing punches tested, a total of 159 were genetically identified from amplification of the partial cyt b gene. All 31 faecal pellets were genetically identified based on the cyt b gene. A comparison between morphological and genetic determination showed 21 misidentifications from the 163 wing punches, representing ~12.5% of misidentifications of morphological determination compared with the genetic method, across 11 species. In addition, genetic determination allowed the identification of 24 out of 25 morphologically non-determined bat samples. Our findings demonstrate the importance of a genetic approach as an efficient and reliable method to identify bat species precisely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youssef Arnaout
- ANSES-Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Management in Zoonoses Control, OIE Reference Laboratory for Rabies, European Union Reference Laboratory for Rabies, European Union Reference Laboratory for Rabies Serology, Malzéville, France
- VetAgro Sup Lyon Laboratory for Leptospira, Marcy l’Etoile, France
| | | | - Emmanuelle Robardet
- ANSES-Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Management in Zoonoses Control, OIE Reference Laboratory for Rabies, European Union Reference Laboratory for Rabies, European Union Reference Laboratory for Rabies Serology, Malzéville, France
| | - Julien Cappelle
- UMR ASTRE, CIRAD, INRAE, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- UMR EPIA, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, Theix, France
| | - Florence Cliquet
- ANSES-Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Management in Zoonoses Control, OIE Reference Laboratory for Rabies, European Union Reference Laboratory for Rabies, European Union Reference Laboratory for Rabies Serology, Malzéville, France
| | - Frédéric Touzalin
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Science Centre West, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Suzel Hurstel
- GEPMA, Strasbourg, France
- LPO Alsace, Rosenwiller, France
| | | | - Evelyne Picard-Meyer
- ANSES-Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Management in Zoonoses Control, OIE Reference Laboratory for Rabies, European Union Reference Laboratory for Rabies, European Union Reference Laboratory for Rabies Serology, Malzéville, France
- * E-mail:
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Shen L, Sun P, Du L, Zhu J, Ju C, Guo H, Wu X. Long-Term Observation and Sequencing Analysis of SKPs-Derived Corneal Endothelial Cell-Like Cells for Treating Corneal Endothelial Dysfunction. Cell Transplant 2021; 30:9636897211017830. [PMID: 34053246 PMCID: PMC8182626 DOI: 10.1177/09636897211017830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal endothelial dysfunction is a principal cause of visual deficiency. Corneal transplantation is the most effective treatment for corneal endothelial dysfunction. However, a severe shortage of available donor corneas or human corneal endothelial cells (HCECs) remains a global challenge. Previously, we acquired corneal endothelial cell-like cells (CEC-like cells) derived from human skin-derived precursors (SKPs). CEC-like cells were injected into rabbit and monkey corneal endothelial dysfunction models and exerted excellent therapeutic effect. In this study, we prolonged the clinical observation in the monkey experiment for 2 years. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing were carried out to confirm the existence of CEC-like cells. Histological examinations were carried out to show the corneal morphology. Further transcriptome sequencing was also carried out on HCEC, CEC-like cells before transplantation and after transplantation. We found that the monkeys cornea remained transparent and normal thickness. The total endothelial cell density decreased gradually, but tended to be stable and remained in a normal range during 2-year observation. The CEC-like cells persist during observation and could adapt to the microenvironment after transplantation. The gene expression pattern of CEC-like cells was similar to HCEC and changed slightly after transplantation. In conclusion, this study presented a brand-new insight into CEC-like cells and further provided a promising prospect of cell-based therapy for corneal endothelial dysfunction. The renewable cell source, novel derivation method and simple treatment strategy may be clinically applied in regenerative medicine in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, The affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Liqun Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jing Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chengqun Ju
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hui Guo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xinyi Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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10
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Nakanishi H, Yoneyama K, Hara M, Takada A, Saito K. Estimating included animal species in mixed crude drugs derived from animals using massively parallel sequencing. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6257. [PMID: 33739020 PMCID: PMC7973747 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85803-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
We developed a method that can detect each animal species of origin for crude drugs derived from multiple animal species based on massively parallel sequencing analysis of mitochondrial genes. The crude drugs derived from animals investigated in this study were Cervi Parvum Cornu and Trogopterorum feces, which are derived from a mix of different animal species, two chopped cicada sloughs, and two commercial Kampo drugs. The mitochondrial 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene regions were amplified and sequenced using MiSeq. The ratios of haplotype to total number of sequences reads were calculated after sequence extraction and trimming. Haplotypes that exceeded the threshold were defined as positive haplotypes, which were compared with all available sequences using BLAST. In the Cervi Parvum Cornu and Trogopterorum feces samples, the haplotype ratios corresponded roughly to the mixture ratios, although there was a slight difference from mixture ratios depending on the gene examined. This method could also roughly estimate the compositions of chopped cicada sloughs and Kampo drugs. This analysis, whereby the sequences of several genes are elucidated, is better for identifying the included animal species. This method should be useful for quality control of crude drugs and Kampo drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Nakanishi
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan.
| | - Katsumi Yoneyama
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan
| | - Masaaki Hara
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan
| | - Aya Takada
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Saito
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
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11
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Grela M, Jakubczak A, Kowalczyk M, Listos P, Gryzińska M. Effectiveness of various methods of DNA isolation from bones and teeth of animals exposed to high temperature. J Forensic Leg Med 2021; 78:102131. [PMID: 33561692 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2021.102131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In the event of fires, natural disasters, and other events associated with high temperature, bones and teeth are the only source of genetic material for identifying human or animal carcasses. To obtain reliable final results of identification tests, the use of appropriate nucleic acid extraction methods is crucial. Therefore, the main objective of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of selected methods of DNA isolation from animal burnt bones and teeth. In addition, the effect of the duration of high temperature on the stability of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA in these tissues was determined, as well as the possibility of using the genetic material obtained for species identification of remains of unknown origin. Bones and teeth collected during necropsy of dogs were burnt in a laboratory oven at 400 °C (752 °F; 673.15 K) for 5, 10, 15, 30, 45 and 60 min. DNA was isolated according to four different protocols, using three commercial kits, i.e. the PrepFiler® Forensic DNA Extraction Kit from Applied Biosystems, the QIAamp® DNA Investigator Kit from QIAGEN, and the DNA Mini Kit from Syngen, as well as a classic organic method. The effectiveness of these methods was compared by assessing the amount of isolated DNA using Real-Time PCR and its purity using a NanoDrop™ spectrophotometer. Each isolate was also subjected to PCR with primers designed to amplify fragments of dog mitochondrial DNA. The effectiveness of species identification was assessed for the method showing the best DNA recovery and for the organic method, considered the gold standard for analysis of difficult material. The QIAamp® DNA Investigator Kit showed the highest efficiency of DNA isolation from bones and teeth burnt for 15 min (the longest burning time for which DNA could still be recovered from bones and teeth). The results of the experiment clearly indicate that DNA stability in hard tissues depends on how long they burn. In the case of exposure to 400 °C, reliable genetic testing, including species identification, is possible when the burning time does not exceed 15 min. Among the hard tissues examined, bones proved more suitable than teeth for identification purposes. It was also concluded that identification of bone remains with extreme heat damage should be based on mitochondrial DNA analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Grela
- Department and Clinic of Animal Internal Diseases, Sub-Department of Pathomorphology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Głęboka 30, 20-612, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Andrzej Jakubczak
- Institute of Biological Basis of Animal Production, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20-950, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Marek Kowalczyk
- Institute of Quality Evaluation and Processing of Animal Products, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20-950, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Piotr Listos
- Department and Clinic of Animal Internal Diseases, Sub-Department of Pathomorphology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Głęboka 30, 20-612, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Gryzińska
- Institute of Biological Basis of Animal Production, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20-950, Lublin, Poland.
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12
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Li Y, Wang Y, Li M, Zhang L, Yuan GX. Development of a species-specific PCR assay for authentication of Agkistrodon acutus based on mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. ELECTRON J BIOTECHN 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejbt.2020.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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13
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Zhu K, Suttner B, Pickering A, Konstantinidis KT, Brown J. A novel droplet digital PCR human mtDNA assay for fecal source tracking. WATER RESEARCH 2020; 183:116085. [PMID: 32750535 PMCID: PMC7495096 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.116085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Human mitochondrial DNA provides a promising target for fecal source tracking because it is unique and intrinsic to humans. We developed a TaqMan chemistry assay, hCYTB484, targeting the cytochrome b gene of the human mitochondrial genome on a droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) platform and compared the performance of hCYTB484 with the HF183/BacR287 assay, a widely used assay targeting human-associated Bacteroides. For both assays, we defined the analytical limit of detection and analytical lower limit of quantification using frequency of detection and imprecision goals, respectively. We then established these analytical limits using empirical ddPCR data, presenting a novel approach to determining the analytical lower limit of quantification. We evaluated assay sensitivity using individual human feces from US, Bangladesh, and Mozambique and evaluated assay specificity using cow, pig, chicken, and goat samples collected from the US. To compare assay performance across a range of thresholds, we utilized receiver operating characteristic curves. The hCYTB484 marker was detected and quantifiable in 100% of the human feces from the 3 geographical distant regions whereas the HF183/BacR287 marker was detectable and quantifiable in 51% and 31% (respectively) of human feces samples. The hCYTB484 marker also was more specific (97%), having fewer detections in pig, chicken, and goat samples than the HF183/BacR287 marker (80%). The higher performance of the hCYTB484 marker in individual feces from geographically distant regions is desirable in the detection of fecal pollution from sources to which fewer individuals contribute, such as the non-sewered forms of sanitation (e.g. pit latrines and septic tanks) that serve most of Earth's population and carry the highest risk of exposure to fecal-oral pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Zhu
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Brittany Suttner
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Amy Pickering
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | | | - Joe Brown
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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14
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Mori C, Matsumura S. Current issues for mammalian species identification in forensic science: a review. Int J Legal Med 2020; 135:3-12. [PMID: 32562039 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-020-02341-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian species identification is one of the important issues in forensic science. Determining the origins of non-human biological material found at crime scenes can increase the possibility of identifying the true culprit by narrowing down the range of suspects. Although many techniques based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) have been developed, challenges remain to cost-effectively identify species from degraded samples containing a mixture of DNA from multiple species and to standardize procedures for mammalian species identification. This review evaluates the reliability and versatility of mtDNA-based techniques to reveal obstacles to the establishment of standard analytical methods, with a particular focus on DNA mixtures. When samples contain a mixture of DNA from multiple species, the interpretation of sequencing analysis results is difficult. Although DNA metabarcoding using next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies can overcome the DNA mixture problem, DNA metabarcoding is not suitable for the type of small-scale analysis routinely performed by local forensic laboratories, primarily because it is costly and time-consuming. By contrast, fluorescent multiplex PCR analysis enables cost-effective and simultaneous species identification from suboptimal samples, although the number of identifiable species is currently limited in comparison with sequencing techniques. The advantages and limitations of current techniques presented in this review indicate that multiplex PCR analysis will continue to be important for mammalian species identification in forensic casework analysis. Further developments in multiplex PCR analysis that enable the identification of an increased number of species will play a key step for standardization efforts among forensic laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chikahiro Mori
- The United Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1193, Japan. .,Forensic Science Laboratory, Gifu Prefectural Police Headquarters, 2-1-1 Yabutaminami, Gifu, 500-8501, Japan.
| | - Shuichi Matsumura
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1193, Japan
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15
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Lopez-Oceja A, Lekube X, Ruiz L, Mujika-Alustiza JA, De Pancorbo MM. CYT B L15601 and H15748 primers for genetic identification of cetacean species. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL GENETICS SUPPLEMENT SERIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigss.2019.10.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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16
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Sługocki Ł, Rymaszewska A, Kirczuk L. Insights into the morphology and molecular characterisation of glacial relict Eurytemoralacustris (Poppe, 1887) (Crustacea, Copepoda, Calanoida, Temoridae). Zookeys 2019; 864:15-33. [PMID: 31346308 PMCID: PMC6646299 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.864.34259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Eurytemoralacustris (Poppe, 1887) is a stenothermic glacial relict whose narrow environmental requirements make it an indicator species for good ecological conditions. The primary threats to this species are eutrophication and global warming. Many authors have described E.lacustris in taxonomic keys; however, its morphological description is unsatisfactory. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to review morphological characteristics of E.lacustris that were previously undescribed in the literature and to provide the molecular characteristics based on the two conservative mitochondrial genes: cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) and cytochrome b (cytb). The new record of E.lacustris indicates that it is a more widespread species than previously hypothesized. Width-to-length ratio of the last female endopod segment of legs indicates variation among the widely distributed species of the genus in Europe (i.e., E.lacustris, E.velox (Lilljeborg, 1853), and E.affinis (Poppe, 1880)). We also found variability of number of setae on the second segment of male endopod. Furthermore, our analysis confirms the occurrence of species in different than exclusively freshwater habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Sługocki
- University of Szczecin, Faculty of Biology, Szczecin, PolandUniversity of SzczecinSzczecinPoland
- University of Szczecin, Center of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Szczecin, PolandUniversity of SzczecinSzczecinPoland
| | - Anna Rymaszewska
- University of Szczecin, Faculty of Biology, Szczecin, PolandUniversity of SzczecinSzczecinPoland
| | - Lucyna Kirczuk
- University of Szczecin, Faculty of Biology, Szczecin, PolandUniversity of SzczecinSzczecinPoland
- University of Szczecin, Center of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Szczecin, PolandUniversity of SzczecinSzczecinPoland
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17
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Andrejevic M, Markovic MK, Bursac B, Mihajlovic M, Tanasic V, Kecmanovic M, Keckarevic D. Identification of a broad spectrum of mammalian and avian species using the short fragment of the mitochondrially encoded cytochrome b gene. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2019; 15:169-177. [PMID: 30806911 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-019-00096-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), especially the gene for cytochrome b (MT-CYB), has been found to be highly informative for species identification. In this study, we present the results of the analysis of a 127 bp long fragment of MT-CYB, amplified using universal primers, variable enough to be used for species identification and discrimination, even in highly degraded animal samples. The total number of analyzed species in this study was 30, including 17 mammalian and 13 bird species. Using a newly created primer pair, we successfully amplified and sequenced the target sequence in almost all tested species. The amplification was incomplete in just two species, and as a result, partial, but still variable sequences, were obtained. Using the target fragment we successfully identified all tested samples. Initial results suggested that the intraspecies genetic diversity of the target region, in all tested species, was low - from 0 to 4.72%. The interspecies genetic diversity of the target region, crucial for successful discrimination, showed relatively high diversity, ranging from 8.36% to 42.52%. Given its short length, the target region should be used for species determination, particularly in samples that are degraded or are low in DNA quantity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Milica Keckarevic Markovic
- Faculty of Biology, Center for Forensic and Applied Molecular Genetics, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 3, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia.
| | - Biljana Bursac
- Institute for Biological Research "Sinisa Stankovic", University of Belgrade, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
| | - Milica Mihajlovic
- Faculty of Biology, Center for Forensic and Applied Molecular Genetics, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 3, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
| | - Vanja Tanasic
- Faculty of Biology, Center for Forensic and Applied Molecular Genetics, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 3, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
| | - Miljana Kecmanovic
- Faculty of Biology, Center for Forensic and Applied Molecular Genetics, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 3, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
| | - Dusan Keckarevic
- Faculty of Biology, Center for Forensic and Applied Molecular Genetics, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 3, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
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18
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McCord BR, Gauthier Q, Cho S, Roig MN, Gibson-Daw GC, Young B, Taglia F, Zapico SC, Mariot RF, Lee SB, Duncan G. Forensic DNA Analysis. Anal Chem 2019; 91:673-688. [PMID: 30485738 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.8b05318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bruce R McCord
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Quentin Gauthier
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Sohee Cho
- Department of Forensic Medicine , Seoul National University , Seoul , 08826 , South Korea
| | - Meghan N Roig
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Georgiana C Gibson-Daw
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Brian Young
- Niche Vision, Inc. , Akron , Ohio 44311 , United States
| | - Fabiana Taglia
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Sara C Zapico
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Roberta Fogliatto Mariot
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Steven B Lee
- Forensic Science Program, Justice Studies Department , San Jose State University , San Jose , California 95192 , United States
| | - George Duncan
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
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19
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Establishment of widely applicable DNA extraction methods to identify the origins of crude drugs derived from animals using molecular techniques. J Nat Med 2018; 73:173-178. [PMID: 30374697 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-018-1261-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
We established widely applicable DNA extraction methods to identify the origins of crude drugs derived from animals. Twenty-one samples including 17 kinds of crude drug derived from animals were examined. DNA was extracted from most of the crude drugs by adjustment of the QIAamp® DNA Mini Kit. DNA extraction was performed successfully using phenol to remove impurities after applying a proteinase treatment. DNA extraction was performed successfully by decalcification treatment using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), before applying the proteinase treatment for crude drugs having high calcium content, such as those from oyster shell and cuttlefish bone. DNA could not be extracted from sea-ear shell using the EDTA decalcification treatment, but was extracted successfully using a TBONE EX KIT. The mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene region was amplified, and Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) analysis was performed after sequencing. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products of approximately 600 bp in length were obtained from all samples except donkey glue, one of the two seahorses, and longgu. Drug origins were determined in all samples by sequence analysis based on the BLAST results, and match rates were >97 %. Moreover, 16 samples had a match rate >99 %. Our DNA extraction methods were widely applicable to evaluation of many crude drugs derived from animals, and proved very useful for identifying the origins of such drugs.
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20
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Inokuchi S, Mizuno N, Nakanishi H, Saito K, Kitayama T, Fujii K, Nakahara H, Sekiguchi K. Non-specific peaks generated by animal DNA during human STR analysis: Peak characteristics and a novel analysis method for mixed human/animal samples. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2018; 37:73-80. [PMID: 30103145 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2018.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Forensic human identification (HID) laboratories occasionally encounter non-specific peaks generated by non-human DNA. Casework samples for human short tandem repeat (STR) profiling may be contaminated by animal DNA because of the specific environment or situation from which they were obtained. Validation studies for HID kits have reported that non-specific peaks generated from some animals are observed near the human amelogenin peak. In this study, we first revealed that DNA sequences associated with the non-specific peaks generated from animal DNA differ from one animal family to the other. However, non-specific peaks cannot be analyzed using the remainder of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products left over from conventional HID kits when human and animal DNA are mixed. To overcome this issue, we have developed a novel analysis method of using non-specific peaks generated from animal DNA in human STR profiling to identify the source of contaminating animal DNA at the family level. The method applied here is termed as blocking PCR, which involves selective animal DNA re-amplification by blocking nontarget human amelogenin DNA amplification using an oligonucleotide probe that specifically binds to human amelogenin using the remaining PCR product from the HID kit. Our data demonstrated that HID and family discrimination among animals that are often encountered in forensic contexts could be performed simultaneously. This study enabled recovery of more information from limited quantities of casework samples contaminated with animal DNA, which would be useful for forensic HID scientists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Inokuchi
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa 277-0882, Japan; Forensic Science Laboratory, Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department, 3-35-21, Shakujiidai, Nerima, Tokyo 177-0045, Japan.
| | - Natsuko Mizuno
- National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa 277-0882, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nakanishi
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Saito
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Tetsushi Kitayama
- National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa 277-0882, Japan
| | - Koji Fujii
- National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa 277-0882, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nakahara
- National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa 277-0882, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Sekiguchi
- National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa 277-0882, Japan
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21
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Sano R, Fukuda H, Takahashi Y, Takahashi K, Kubo R, Kobayashi M, Fujihara J, Takeshita H, Kominato Y. Sequence analysis of ABO and its homologues is valid for species identification. Transfus Med 2017; 27:428-436. [PMID: 28850748 DOI: 10.1111/tme.12455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND ABO and its paralogues, such as A3GALT2 and GGTA1, encoding α1,3-Gal(NAc) transferases, belong to the glycosyltransferase 6 (GT6) gene family. We have developed an alternative method for the identification of species based on sequence variations within the GT6 gene family, which is applicable to degraded DNA. METHODS/MATERIALS DNA samples prepared from control mammalian species, together with an unknown sample, were polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-amplified using one universal primer pair targeting the sequences in the last coding exons of the GT6 gene family, yielding 141-bp products derived from those multiple loci. After cloning, sequence determination and Basic Local Alignment Search Tool analysis, phylogenetic trees were constructed. RESULTS Comparison of the sequences obtained with those references showed good concordance with each of the starting species of mammals. This system was able to identify 'mouse' or 'rodent' as the origin of the unknown sample. CONCLUSION For the identification of species, genotyping of ABO and its homologues would be applicable for the analysis of degraded DNA samples. Although the method employed in this study is likely valid for mammals, it would not be suitable for birds, fish and reptiles. It may be possible to improve the present method for use with other species by employing an alternative universal primer set.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Sano
- Department of Legal Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - H Fukuda
- Department of Legal Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Y Takahashi
- Department of Legal Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - K Takahashi
- Department of Legal Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - R Kubo
- Department of Legal Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - M Kobayashi
- Department of Legal Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - J Fujihara
- Department of Legal Medicine, Shimane University School of Medicine, Izumo, Japan
| | - H Takeshita
- Department of Legal Medicine, Shimane University School of Medicine, Izumo, Japan
| | - Y Kominato
- Department of Legal Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
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22
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Shi Q, Wang J, Liu J, Jiang H, Nie L. The complete mitochondrial genome of Geochelone sulcata. Mitochondrial DNA B Resour 2017; 2:463-464. [PMID: 33473863 PMCID: PMC7800827 DOI: 10.1080/23802359.2017.1357437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The complete mitochondrial genome of Geochelone sulcata was determined using PCR, Long-PCR with length of 16,692 bp. The genome organization, gene order, and base composition was similar to typical vertebrate. Gene content included 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, two rRNA genes, and one control region. Otherwise, the lack of C, as same as in the other species of Testudinidae, was detected in arms of tRNALys gene in G. sulcata. In addition, an extra nucleotide A was discovered in ND3 gene in G. sulcata. The complete mitogenome of G. sulcata provides the basic data to research molecular systematics of Testudinidae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Shi
- Life Science College, Provincial Key Lab of the Conservation and Exploitation Research of Biological Resources in Anhui, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Jue Wang
- Life Science College, Provincial Key Lab of the Conservation and Exploitation Research of Biological Resources in Anhui, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Life Science College, Provincial Key Lab of the Conservation and Exploitation Research of Biological Resources in Anhui, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Life Science College, Provincial Key Lab of the Conservation and Exploitation Research of Biological Resources in Anhui, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Liuwang Nie
- Life Science College, Provincial Key Lab of the Conservation and Exploitation Research of Biological Resources in Anhui, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
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23
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Moustafa GG, Abd-Elhakim YM, El Sharkawy NI. Genetic Profiling of Equid Hybrids Using PCR-RFLP and Partial Sequence Analysis of Cytochrome b Gene: Forensic Implication. J Equine Vet Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2017.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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24
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Lopez-Oceja A, Nuñez C, Baeta M, Gamarra D, de Pancorbo MM. Species identification in meat products: A new screening method based on high resolution melting analysis of cyt b gene. Food Chem 2017; 237:701-706. [PMID: 28764056 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Meat adulteration by substitution with lower value products and/or mislabeling involves economic, health, quality and socio-religious issues. Therefore, identification and traceability of meat species has become an important subject to detect possible fraudulent practices. In the present study the development of a high resolution melt (HRM) screening method for the identification of eight common meat species is reported. Samples from Bos taurus, Ovis aries, Sus scrofa domestica, Equus caballus, Oryctolagus cuniculus, Gallus gallus domesticus, Meleagris gallopavo and Coturnix coturnix were analyzed through the amplification of a 148 bp fragment from the cyt b gene with a universal primer pair in HRM analyses. Melting profiles from each species, as well as from several DNA mixtures of these species and blind samples, allowed a successful species differentiation. The results demonstrated that the HRM method here proposed is a fast, reliable, and low-cost screening technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Lopez-Oceja
- BIOMICS Research Group, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz 01006, Spain
| | - C Nuñez
- BIOMICS Research Group, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz 01006, Spain
| | - M Baeta
- BIOMICS Research Group, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz 01006, Spain
| | - D Gamarra
- BIOMICS Research Group, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz 01006, Spain
| | - M M de Pancorbo
- BIOMICS Research Group, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz 01006, Spain.
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Kitpipit T, Thongjued K, Penchart K, Ouithavon K, Chotigeat W. Mini-SNaPshot multiplex assays authenticate elephant ivory and simultaneously identify the species origin. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2016; 27:106-115. [PMID: 28033530 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2016.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Illegal trading of ivory is mainly responsible for the dramatic decline in elephant populations. Thailand is one of the largest laundering hotspots for African ivory, as the domestic Asian elephant ivory can be legally traded. So, to help combat ivory poaching and smuggling, an efficient method is needed to identify the elephant species from its ivory and ivory products. In this study, a mini-SNaPshot® multiplex assay was developed and fully validated for the identification of confiscated ivory and low DNA template ivory products. Elephantid- and elephant species-specific mitochondrial single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified from 207 mammalian and 1705 elephant/mammoth cytochrome b sequence alignments. Seven informative SNPs were used for assay development. The assay unambiguously and accurately identified authentic elephant ivory and its species of origin on the basis of peak size and color observed in the haplotype profile. The assay was highly efficient for analysis of confiscated ivory and low-template ivory products with a 99.29% success rate (N=140). It was highly reproducible, exhibited no cross-reaction with eight other mammalian DNA; and had 100% identification accuracy. In addition, nested and direct PCR amplification were also compatible with the developed assay. This efficient assay should benefit wildlife forensic laboratories and aid in the prosecution of elephant-related crimes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thitika Kitpipit
- Forensic Science Program, Department of Applied Science, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand.
| | - Kantima Thongjued
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand
| | - Kitichaya Penchart
- DNP Wildlife Forensic Science Unit, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Thailand
| | - Kanita Ouithavon
- DNP Wildlife Forensic Science Unit, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Thailand
| | - Wilaiwan Chotigeat
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand
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