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Cahill A, Volgin L, van Oorschot RAH, Taylor D, Goray M. Where did it go? A study of DNA transfer in a social setting. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2024; 73:103101. [PMID: 39096604 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2024.103101] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
The sensitivity of DNA analysis has progressed to the point that trace levels of DNA, originating from only a few cells, can generate informative profiles. This means that virtually any item or surface can be sampled with a reasonable chance of obtaining a DNA profile. As the presence of DNA does not suggest how it was deposited, questions are often raised as to how the DNA came to be at a particular location and the activity that led to its deposition. Therefore, understanding different modes of DNA deposition, reflective of realistic forensic casework situations, is critical for proper evaluation of DNA results in court. This study aimed to follow the movements of DNA to and from individuals and common household surfaces in a residential premises, while socially interacting. This took place over an hour and involved four participants, with known shedder status, designated as visitors (a male and a female) and hosts (a male and a female), who engaged in the activity of playing a board game while being served food. During the study, the participants were instructed to use the toilet on a single occasion to assess the transfer of DNA to new and unused underwear that was provided. All contacts made by the participants in the dining room and kitchen were video recorded to follow the movements of DNA. Samples were collected based on the history of contact, which included hands, fingernails and penile swabs. Direct contacts resulted in detectable transfer (LR > 1) in 87 % (87/100) of the non-intimate samples and clothing. For surfaces touched by multiple participants, DNA from the person who made the last contact was not always detectable. The duration and number of contacts did not significantly affect the detection of the person contacting the item. On the other hand, presence of background DNA and participant's shedder status appear to play an important role. Further, unknown contributors were detected in the majority of samples. Finally, indirect transfer was observed on a number of occasions including co-habiting partners of guests who were not present at the study location. The results of this study may assist with decision making for exhibit selection or targeting areas for sampling within the home environment. Our findings can also be used in conjunction with previous literature to develop activity-level evaluations in such situations where the source of the DNA is conceded, but the mode of deposition is disputed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Cahill
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Luke Volgin
- Forensic Science SA, GPO Box 2790, Adelaide 5001, Australia
| | - Roland A H van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, Victoria, Australia; School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Duncan Taylor
- Forensic Science SA, GPO Box 2790, Adelaide 5001, Australia
| | - Mariya Goray
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia.
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2
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Karadayı S, Yılmaz İ, Özbek T, Karadayı B. Transfer and persistence of microbiota markers from the human hand to the knife: A preliminary study. J Forensic Leg Med 2024; 107:102757. [PMID: 39298862 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2024.102757] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
New scientific techniques and methods are always needed to link the perpetrators to the incident or the crime scene. Recent microbiota studies based on NGS (Next-generation sequencing) show that various biological samples from crime scenes have the potential to be used in forensic investigations. Especially when DNA traces belonging to more than one person are insufficient to fully determine the genetic profile, a secret sample, such as a microbiota sample created by the suspect's touch, can be used. In this preliminary study, a fictionalized experimental model was designed to investigate the transfer and persistence of the hand microbiome on the knife handle, which has a high potential to be used in criminal incidents, by metagenomic analysis methods. In addition, it was aimed to determine the transfer of specific bacterial species identified only to the person among the five participants onto the knife handle and their persistence over time. In the first stage of the research, samples were collected from the hands of 5 volunteer participants using the swap method, including their palms. Then, after each participant held a different knife, samples were collected from the knife handles via swabs from different angles of the knives at 4 and 24 h and analyzed by metagenomic methods. The findings of this preliminary study showed that the heatmap graphs generated after UniFrac distance analysis were not successful in establishing any similarity between the hand samples and the post-transfer knife handle samples. Nonetheless, it was observed that the transfer of bacterial species detected in the hand samples to knives differed according to the individuals and some bacterial species were transferred to the knife samples held by the participants. The number of bacterial species detected that are specific to each participant's hand sample was 302 in total, and it was determined that a total of 8.28 % of these bacterial species were transferred to the knife handle samples of the 4th hour and 6.95 % to the knife samples of the 24th hour. In the presented study, considering the transfer of some bacterial species in the hand microbiome, which are effective in the variation between individuals, onto the knife; It has been evaluated that some rare bacterial species can be important potential markers to associate the object with the perpetrator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukriye Karadayı
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Altınbaş University, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - İlknur Yılmaz
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Graduate School of Science & Engineering, Yıldız Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Tülin Özbek
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Arts and Science, Yıldız Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Beytullah Karadayı
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey.
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3
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Martin B, Doane MP, Henkens J, Morgan JAT, Inglis L, Peddemors VM, Dinsdale EA, Huveneers C, Meyer L. Who bit the boat? New DNA collection and genomic methods enable species identification in suspected shark-related incidents. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2024; 72:103087. [PMID: 38996566 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2024.103087] [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: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Species identification following shark-related incidents is critical for effective incident management and for collecting data to inform shark-bite mitigation strategies. Witness statements are not always reliable, and species identification is often ambiguous or missing. Alternative methods for species identification include morphological assessments of bite marks, analysis of collected teeth at the scene of the incident, and genetic approaches. However, access to appropriate collection media and robust genetic assays have limited the use of genetic technologies. Here, we present a case study that facilitated a unique opportunity to compare the effectiveness of medical gauze readily available in first-aid kits, and forensic-grade swabs in collecting genetic material for shark-species identification. Sterile medical gauze and forensic-grade swabs were used to collect transfer DNA from the bite margins on a bitten surf ski which were compared to a piece of shark tissue embedded along the bite margin. Witness accounts and the characteristics of the bite mark impressions inferred the involvement of a Carcharodon carcharias (white shark). The morphology of a tooth found on the boat that picked up the surf ski, however, suggested it belonged to an Orectolobus spp. (wobbegong). Genetic analysis of DNA transferred from the shark to the surf ski included the application of a broad-target nested PCR assay followed by Sanger sequencing, with white shark contribution to the 'total sample DNA' determined with a species-specific qPCR assay. The results of the genetic analyses were congruent between sampling methods with respect to species identification and the level of activity inferred by the donor-specific DNA contribution. These data also supported the inferences drawn from the bite mark morphology. DNA from the recovered tooth was PCR amplified with a wobbegong-specific primer pair designed for this study to corroborate the tooth's morphological identification. Following the confirmation of gauze used for sampling in the case study event, two additional isolated incidents occurred and were sampled in situ using gauze, as typically found in a first-aid kit, by external personnel. DNA extracted from these gauze samples resulted in the identification of a white shark as the donor of the DNA collected from the bite marks in both instances. This study, involving three incidents separated by time and location, represents the seminal application of gauze as a sampling media after critical human-shark interactions and strongly supports the practical implementation of these methods in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Martin
- Flinders University, Flinders Accelerator for Microbiome Exploration, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia.
| | - Michael P Doane
- Flinders University, Flinders Accelerator for Microbiome Exploration, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia.
| | - Jessica Henkens
- Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia.
| | - Jess A T Morgan
- Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia.
| | - Laura Inglis
- Flinders University, Flinders Accelerator for Microbiome Exploration, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia.
| | - Victor M Peddemors
- New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Sydney Institute of Marine Science, Mosman, NSW 2088, Australia.
| | - Elizabeth A Dinsdale
- Flinders University, Flinders Accelerator for Microbiome Exploration, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia.
| | - Charlie Huveneers
- Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; Flinders University, Southern Shark Ecology Group, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia.
| | - Lauren Meyer
- Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; Flinders University, Southern Shark Ecology Group, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; The Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States.
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Blackmore L, Hadley Cabral de Almada C, Poulsen F, Prasad E, Kotzander J, Paton K, Hitchcock C, Nadort A. Evaluation of the microbial wet-vacuum system (M-Vac®) for DNA sampling from rough, porous substrates, and its compatibility with fully automated platforms. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 361:112079. [PMID: 38850613 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112079] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
DNA retrieval methods traditionally used during forensic evidence recovery including swabbing and tape lifting, can have limited effectiveness when used on porous, rough substrates such as bricks and carpet. This is possibly due to the DNA material being dispersed and unreachable for surface sampling techniques. In this evaluation we investigated the effectiveness of the Microbial Wet-Vacuum System (M-Vac®; M-Vac® Systems, Inc., Sandy, UT), as it has been reported to retrieve greater amounts of DNA material from challenging exhibits. A four-stage evaluation was conducted, starting with seeding carpet and brick substrates with a known donor's saliva in two dilutions and comparing the DNA recovery of tape lifting, swabbing, and the M-Vac®. A victim struggle scenario on carpet was then mimicked to compare trace DNA recovery by each method. Two mock scenarios were also conducted; a shirt was submerged in a creek bed for a period of five days to sample for the wearer's DNA, and a car boot was sampled to assess the possibility of recovering a victim's DNA amongst background DNA from the usual car occupants. Finally, the compatibility of the M-Vac® sampling process was optimised for the fully automated DNA lysis and extraction platforms used in the NSW (Australia) jurisdiction by comparing filter subsampling methods. The results from the study were mixed. For bricks, none of the collection methods were effective in retrieving DNA. On carpet, the M-Vac® retrieved the greatest quantities of DNA from the saliva-seeded samples, however, tape lifts outperformed all methods for 'touch' DNA recovery. The M-Vac® retrieved the greatest amount of DNA from the t-shirt recovered from a creek bed as it was able to retrieve the embedded DNA. The final mock case car boot scenario resulted in greater victim DNA recovery from tape lifts, with the M-Vac® more likely to recover mixtures too weak and/or complex to be interpreted. Finally, operational considerations regarding the compatibility of the M-Vac® system with fully automated DNA lysis and extraction are discussed. Considering the substantial time and cost to deploy the M-Vac®, it is recommended to be utilised in casework only after swabbing and tape lifting methods have failed to yield sufficient DNA material, where the substrate properties would likely benefit from the M-Vac's® niche capabilities for retrieving embedded DNA, and low levels of background DNA may be anticipated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Blackmore
- NSW Police Force, Forensic Evidence & Technical Services Command, Australia; Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Felicity Poulsen
- NSW Health Pathology, Forensic & Analytical Science Service, Forensic Biology/DNA Unit, PO Box 162, Lidcombe, NSW 1825, Australia
| | - Elisha Prasad
- NSW Police Force, Forensic Evidence & Technical Services Command, Australia
| | - Jessica Kotzander
- NSW Police Force, Forensic Evidence & Technical Services Command, Australia
| | - Kelly Paton
- NSW Police Force, Forensic Evidence & Technical Services Command, Australia
| | - Catherine Hitchcock
- NSW Health Pathology, Forensic & Analytical Science Service, Forensic Biology/DNA Unit, PO Box 162, Lidcombe, NSW 1825, Australia
| | - Annemarie Nadort
- NSW Police Force, Forensic Evidence & Technical Services Command, Australia.
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Recipon M, Agniel R, Kunemann P, Ponche A, Carreiras F, Hermitte F, Leroy-Dudal J, Hubac S, Gallet O, Kellouche S. Detection of invisible biological traces in relation to the physicochemical properties of substrates surfaces in forensic casework. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13271. [PMID: 38858407 PMCID: PMC11164948 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63911-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Touch DNA, which can be found at crime scenes, consists of invisible biological traces deposited through a person's skin's contact with an object or another person. Many factors influence touch DNA transfer, including the "destination" substrate's surface. The latter's physicochemical characteristics (wettability, roughness, surface energy, etc.) will impact touch DNA deposition and persistence on a substrate. We selected a representative panel of substrates from objects found at crime scenes (glass, polystyrene, tiles, raw wood, etc.) to investigate the impact of these characteristics on touch DNA deposition and detection. These were shown to impact cell deposition, morphology, retention, and subsequent touch DNA genetic analysis. Interestingly, cell-derived fragments found within keratinocyte cells and fingermarks using in vitro touch DNA models could be successfully detected whichever the substrates' physicochemistry by targeting cellular proteins and carbohydrates for two months, indoors and outdoors. However, swabbing and genetic analyses of such mock traces from different substrates produced informative profiles mainly for substrates with the highest surface free energy and therefore the most hydrophilic. The substrates' intrinsic characteristics need to be considered to better understand both the transfer and persistence of biological traces, as well as their detection and collection, which require an appropriate methodology and sampling device to get informative genetic profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Recipon
- Equipe de Recherche sur les Relations Matrice Extracellulaire-Cellules, ERRMECe, (EA1391), Groupe Matrice Extracellulaire et Physiopathologie (MECuP), Institut des Matériaux, I-MAT (FD4122), CY Cergy Paris Université, Neuville Sur Oise, France.
- Institut de Recherche Criminelle de La Gendarmerie Nationale, Cergy-Pontoise, France.
| | - Rémy Agniel
- Equipe de Recherche sur les Relations Matrice Extracellulaire-Cellules, ERRMECe, (EA1391), Groupe Matrice Extracellulaire et Physiopathologie (MECuP), Institut des Matériaux, I-MAT (FD4122), CY Cergy Paris Université, Neuville Sur Oise, France
| | | | - Arnaud Ponche
- Institut de Science Des Matériaux de Mulhouse, Mulhouse, France
| | - Franck Carreiras
- Equipe de Recherche sur les Relations Matrice Extracellulaire-Cellules, ERRMECe, (EA1391), Groupe Matrice Extracellulaire et Physiopathologie (MECuP), Institut des Matériaux, I-MAT (FD4122), CY Cergy Paris Université, Neuville Sur Oise, France
| | - Francis Hermitte
- Institut de Recherche Criminelle de La Gendarmerie Nationale, Cergy-Pontoise, France
| | - Johanne Leroy-Dudal
- Equipe de Recherche sur les Relations Matrice Extracellulaire-Cellules, ERRMECe, (EA1391), Groupe Matrice Extracellulaire et Physiopathologie (MECuP), Institut des Matériaux, I-MAT (FD4122), CY Cergy Paris Université, Neuville Sur Oise, France
| | - Sylvain Hubac
- Institut de Recherche Criminelle de La Gendarmerie Nationale, Cergy-Pontoise, France
| | - Olivier Gallet
- Equipe de Recherche sur les Relations Matrice Extracellulaire-Cellules, ERRMECe, (EA1391), Groupe Matrice Extracellulaire et Physiopathologie (MECuP), Institut des Matériaux, I-MAT (FD4122), CY Cergy Paris Université, Neuville Sur Oise, France
| | - Sabrina Kellouche
- Equipe de Recherche sur les Relations Matrice Extracellulaire-Cellules, ERRMECe, (EA1391), Groupe Matrice Extracellulaire et Physiopathologie (MECuP), Institut des Matériaux, I-MAT (FD4122), CY Cergy Paris Université, Neuville Sur Oise, France.
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6
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Hymus CM, Baxter FO, Ta H, Tran T, de Sousa C, Mountford NS, Tay JW. A comparison of six adhesive tapes as tape lifts for efficient trace DNA recovery without the transfer of PCR inhibitors. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2024; 67:102330. [PMID: 37802731 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2023.102330] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Tape-lifting is a non-destructive method employed in the laboratory to recover and collect trace DNA evidence from crime scene exhibits with porous surfaces. The success of tape-lifting is a balance between capturing the biological material and compatibility with downstream DNA extraction processes to ensure efficient release of the tape-lifted material during DNA extraction. In this study, six commercially available low-, regular- and high-tack adhesive tapes were evaluated. The low-tack S183 tape and the highly adhesive S-Hold tape were compared for DNA recovery efficiency from different materials commonly encountered in casework. All tape-lifts were processed using PrepFiler Express™ BTA and AutoMate Express™ Forensic DNA extraction systems, DNA samples quantitated by Quantifiler TRIO, amplified using Powerplex® 21 and VeriFiler™ PLUS (VFP), and analysed on a 3500xl genetic analyser to evaluate the quality of the resultant STR profiles obtained. The more adhesive S-Hold tape recovered comparable or more DNA than the low-tack S183 tape from the majority of materials tested. However, STR profiles obtained from S183 tape-lifts were of markedly higher quality compared to S-Hold tape-lifts. This was most evident for towel, denim and printed chiffon, where S-Hold samples exhibited severe PCR inhibition, with VFP internal quality markers confirming the presence of inhibitors. The findings suggest that strong adhesion is not necessarily beneficial for tape-lifting, as the low tack S183 tape was able to efficiently recover cellular material from the surface of porous substrates commonly encountered in casework, while avoiding the co-transfer of PCR-inhibitory substances from the sampled material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colby M Hymus
- Forensic Biology Department, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Fiona O Baxter
- Forensic Biology Department, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Hoan Ta
- Forensic Biology Department, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Teresa Tran
- Forensic Biology Department, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Clare de Sousa
- Forensic Biology Department, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Nicholas S Mountford
- Forensic Biology Department, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jasmine W Tay
- Forensic Biology Department, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Western Australia, Australia.
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Kuffel A, Nic Daeid N, Gray A. Comparison of swabbing and cutting-out DNA collection methods from cotton, paper, and cardboard surfaces. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2024; 8:100453. [PMID: 38283046 PMCID: PMC10821607 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2023.100453] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Choosing an inappropriate method of sample collection can often have a detrimental impact on DNA recovery. Multiple studies highlight the importance of selecting the recovery method based on the type of surface the DNA sample is located on. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of sample collection via the single cotton swabbing method in comparison to recovery directly from the material cut from the surface. The three types of surfaces included cotton, paper, and cardboard. DNA sources comprised cell-free and cellular DNA, as well as blood and saliva as examples of body fluids commonly encountered at crime scenes. The data analysis revealed that the cutting-out method resulted in higher DNA recovery from all but cardboard surfaces, making it the more efficient collection method. Despite its limitations, the cutting-out method should be considered as the DNA recovery method of choice when suitable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Kuffel
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, Fleming Gym Building, University of Dundee, Small's Wynd, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Niamh Nic Daeid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, Fleming Gym Building, University of Dundee, Small's Wynd, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander Gray
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, Fleming Gym Building, University of Dundee, Small's Wynd, Dundee, United Kingdom
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Sessa F, Pomara C, Esposito M, Grassi P, Cocimano G, Salerno M. Indirect DNA Transfer and Forensic Implications: A Literature Review. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:2153. [PMID: 38136975 PMCID: PMC10742555 DOI: 10.3390/genes14122153] [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] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Progress in DNA profiling techniques has made it possible to detect even the minimum amount of DNA at a crime scene (i.e., a complete DNA profile can be produced using as little as 100 pg of DNA, equivalent to only 15-20 human cells), leading to new defense strategies. While the evidence of a DNA trace is seldom challenged in court by a defendant's legal team, concerns are often raised about how the DNA was transferred to the location of the crime. This review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the experimental work carried out focusing on indirect DNA transfer, analyzing each selected paper, the experimental method, the sampling technique, the extraction protocol, and the main results. Scopus and Web of Science databases were used as the search engines, including 49 papers. Based on the results of this review, one of the factors that influence secondary transfer is the amount of DNA shed by different individuals. Another factor is the type and duration of contact between individuals or objects (generally, more intimate or prolonged contact results in more DNA transfer). A third factor is the nature and quality of the DNA source. However, there are exceptions and variations depending on individual characteristics and environmental conditions. Considering that secondary transfer depends on multiple factors that interact with each other in unpredictable ways, it should be considered a complex and dynamic phenomenon that can affect forensic investigation in various ways, for example, placing a subject at a crime scene who has never been there. Correct methods and protocols are required to detect and prevent secondary transfer from compromising forensic evidence, as well as the correct interpretation through Bayesian networks. In this context, the definition of well-designed experimental studies combined with the use of new forensic techniques could improve our knowledge in this challenging field, reinforcing the value of DNA evidence in criminal trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sessa
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (C.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Cristoforo Pomara
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (C.P.); (M.S.)
| | | | - Patrizia Grassi
- “Vittorio Emanuele” Hospital, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Cocimano
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Vanvitelli”, 80121 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Monica Salerno
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (C.P.); (M.S.)
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9
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Recipon M, Agniel R, Leroy-Dudal J, Fritz T, Carreiras F, Hermitte F, Hubac S, Gallet O, Kellouche S. Targeting cell-derived markers to improve the detection of invisible biological traces for the purpose of genetic-based criminal identification. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18105. [PMID: 37872292 PMCID: PMC10593828 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45366-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
At a crime scene, investigators are faced with a multitude of traces. Among them, biological traces are of primary interest for the rapid genetic-based identification of individuals. "Touch DNA" consists of invisible biological traces left by the simple contact of a person's skin with objects. To date, these traces remain undetectable with the current methods available in the field. This study proposes a proof-of-concept for the original detection of touch DNA by targeting cell-derived fragments in addition to DNA. More specifically, adhesive-structure proteins (laminin, keratin) as well as carbohydrate patterns (mannose, galactose) have been detected with keratinocyte cells derived from a skin and fingermark touch-DNA model over two months in outdoor conditions. Better still, this combinatory detection strategy is compatible with DNA profiling. This proof-of-concept work paves the way for the optimization of tools that can detect touch DNA, which remains a real challenge in helping investigators and the delivery of justice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Recipon
- Equipe de Recherche sur les Relations Matrice Extracellulaire-Cellules, ERRMECe, (EA1391), Groupe Matrice Extracellulaire et Physiopathologie (MECuP), Institut des Matériaux, I-MAT (FD4122), CY Cergy Paris Université, Neuville sur Oise, France.
- Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale, Cergy-Pontoise, France.
| | - Rémy Agniel
- Equipe de Recherche sur les Relations Matrice Extracellulaire-Cellules, ERRMECe, (EA1391), Groupe Matrice Extracellulaire et Physiopathologie (MECuP), Institut des Matériaux, I-MAT (FD4122), CY Cergy Paris Université, Neuville sur Oise, France
| | - Johanne Leroy-Dudal
- Equipe de Recherche sur les Relations Matrice Extracellulaire-Cellules, ERRMECe, (EA1391), Groupe Matrice Extracellulaire et Physiopathologie (MECuP), Institut des Matériaux, I-MAT (FD4122), CY Cergy Paris Université, Neuville sur Oise, France
| | - Thibaud Fritz
- Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale, Cergy-Pontoise, France
| | - Franck Carreiras
- Equipe de Recherche sur les Relations Matrice Extracellulaire-Cellules, ERRMECe, (EA1391), Groupe Matrice Extracellulaire et Physiopathologie (MECuP), Institut des Matériaux, I-MAT (FD4122), CY Cergy Paris Université, Neuville sur Oise, France
| | - Francis Hermitte
- Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale, Cergy-Pontoise, France
| | - Sylvain Hubac
- Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale, Cergy-Pontoise, France
| | - Olivier Gallet
- Equipe de Recherche sur les Relations Matrice Extracellulaire-Cellules, ERRMECe, (EA1391), Groupe Matrice Extracellulaire et Physiopathologie (MECuP), Institut des Matériaux, I-MAT (FD4122), CY Cergy Paris Université, Neuville sur Oise, France
| | - Sabrina Kellouche
- Equipe de Recherche sur les Relations Matrice Extracellulaire-Cellules, ERRMECe, (EA1391), Groupe Matrice Extracellulaire et Physiopathologie (MECuP), Institut des Matériaux, I-MAT (FD4122), CY Cergy Paris Université, Neuville sur Oise, France
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10
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Woodcock L, Gooch J, Wolff K, Daniel B, Frascione N. Fingermarks in wildlife forensics: A review. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 350:111781. [PMID: 37478729 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Wildlife forensics is defined as providing forensic evidence to support legal investigations involving wildlife crime, such as the trafficking and poaching of animals and/ or their goods. While wildlife forensics is an underexplored field of science, the ramifications of poaching can be catastrophic. The consequences of wildlife crime include disease spread, species and habitat loss, human injury, and cultural loss. Efforts to use forensic science to combat poaching are currently limited to DNA-based techniques. However, fingermark analysis for the identification of perpetrators of wildlife crimes has not been explored to the same extent, despite being a cost-effective, simple-to-use forensic method that is easy to deploy in-field. This review covers literature that has explored fingermark examination techniques used on wildlife-related samples, such as pangolin scales, ivory-based substances, bone, and eggs, as well as feathers and skins, among more obscure trafficked items. Useful preliminary work has been conducted in this subject area, demonstrating that commonly used fingermark analysis techniques can be applied to wildlife-based items. However, many of these studies suffer from limitations in terms of experimental design. More work should be done on creating studies with larger sample sizes and novel approaches should be validated under environmental conditions that mimic real crime scenes. Further research into determining the forensic fingermark analysis techniques that perform the most efficiently in the environmental conditions of the countries where they are needed would therefore benefit legal investigations and help to reduce instances of poaching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Woodcock
- King's Forensics, Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK
| | - James Gooch
- King's Forensics, Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Kim Wolff
- King's Forensics, Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Barbara Daniel
- King's Forensics, Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Nunzianda Frascione
- King's Forensics, Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK.
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11
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Monkman H, Szkuta B, van Oorschot RAH. Presence of Human DNA on Household Dogs and Its Bi-Directional Transfer. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1486. [PMID: 37510390 PMCID: PMC10379355 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Awareness of the factors surrounding the transfer of DNA from a person, item, or surface to another person, item, or surface is highly relevant during investigations of alleged criminal activity. Animals in domestic environments could be a victim, offender, or innocent party associated with a crime. There is, however, very limited knowledge of human DNA transfer, persistence, prevalence, and recovery (DNA TPPR) associated with domestic animals. This pilot study aimed to improve our understanding of DNA TPPR associated with domestic dogs by collecting and analysing samples from various external areas of dogs of various breeds, interactions with humans, and living arrangements, and conducting a series of tests to investigate the possibility of dogs being vectors for the indirect transfer of human DNA. Reference DNA profiles from the dog owners and others living in the same residence were acquired to assist interpretation of the findings. The findings show that human DNA is prevalent on dogs, and in the majority of samples, two-person mixtures are present. Dogs were also found to be vectors for the transfer of human DNA, with DNA transferred from the dog to a gloved hand during patting and a sheet while walking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Monkman
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
| | - Bianca Szkuta
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia
| | - Roland A H van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod 3085, Australia
- School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora 3086, Australia
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12
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Abdullah A, Szkuta B, Meakin GE. Effect of swabbing technique and duration on forensic DNA recovery. Sci Justice 2023; 63:343-348. [PMID: 37169459 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2023.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Various factors have been shown to affect performance of the conventional wet-dry double and single wet swabbing techniques to recover DNA, such as pressure and angle of application, volume and type of wetting agent, and swab type. However, casework laboratories in some jurisdictions have recently adopted different swabbing techniques that include wet-moist double swabbing and moist-dry single swabbing. Factors affecting the effectiveness of these recent techniques in maximising DNA recovery therefore need to be investigated. Here, the performance of traditional and recent swabbing techniques was compared and the impact of swabbing duration on DNA recovery was investigated. Ten µl aliquots of a known concentration of DNA extracted from human blood were deposited on pre-cleaned DNA-free cotton swatches (porous) and porcelain tiles (non-porous). Five swabbing techniques were used, of which three were double swabbing techniques: wet-moist, wet-wet and wet-dry, and two were single swabbing techniques: wet and moist-dry. For a 'wet' or 'moist' swab, 100 or 50 µL water was added, respectively. For a moist-dry swab, water was applied to one side of the swab, leaving the other side drier. Each swabbing technique was applied for two durations, 15 and 30 s per swab, with 5 reps of each combination (n = 100 plus controls). All samples were extracted and quantified, and a sub-set was profiled. The results showed that the wet-moist double swabbing technique with a swabbing duration of 30 s maximised DNA recovery from cotton. From tile, a single wet or moist-dry swab maximised DNA recovery, but increasing swabbing duration from 15 to 30 s had no impact. These data can be used to inform standardisation of DNA collection protocols across casework laboratories.
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13
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Gołaszewska A. Recovery techniques for contact DNA traces. ARCHIVES OF FORENSIC MEDICINE AND CRIMINOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.4467/16891716amsik.22.016.17394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Donor DNA profiling can serve at least two purposes: 1) to enhance the evidential value of DNA deposited on garments/ items and 2) to provide valuable tactical information during crime scene investigation. In this review, different types of methods for the recovery of the contact DNA traces have been summarized. Additionally, with the available techniques, the unique characteristics and limitations thereof have been overviewed. The aim of this paper is to review the techniques of touch traces collection.
Techniki odzyskiwania śladów kontaktowych DNA
Profilowanie DNA dawcy może służyć co najmniej dwóm celom: 1) zwiększeniu wartości dowodowej DNA zdeponowanego na odzieży/przedmiotach oraz 2) dostarczeniu cennych informacji taktycznych podczas badania miejsca przestępstwa. W niniejszym przeglądzie podsumowano różne rodzaje metod odzyskiwania śladów kontaktowych DNA. Dodatkowo, w odniesieniu do dostępnych technik, dokonano przeglądu ich unikalnych cech i ograniczeń. Celem niniejszej pracy jest przegląd technik pozyskiwania śladów dotykowych.
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14
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Carrara L, Hicks T, Samie L, Taroni F, Castella V. DNA transfer when using gloves in burglary simulations. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2023; 63:102823. [PMID: 36563530 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2022.102823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have demonstrated that DNA can be indirectly transferred from an individual onto a surface. Therefore, the presence of DNA that is compatible with a given person does not necessarily mean that this person has touched the surface on which the DNA was recovered. The present work simulates cases, where DNA is recovered on a door handle and compared to several reference DNA profiles. The DNA profile of the trace shares DNA components with a person of interest (POI). When asked about the DNA results, the POI says he has nothing to do with the incident and has never been at the scene. However, a possibility would be that the DNA came from his recently stolen gloves. Someone else, the alternative offender (AO), could have opened the door wearing his gloves (POI's gloves), and transferred his DNA (POI's DNA). Based on the above-mentioned scenario, 60 burglary simulations experiments were carried out to generate data to assess DNA results given these allegations. The quantity and quality of DNA profiles (NGM SElect) recovered when the POI opened/closed the door bare-handed or when someone else performed the same activity but using POI's gloves, were compared. The gloves were regularly worn during at least three months by their owner during the winter. On the contrary, the AO wore them only for two minutes. Among the traces collected on the door handles, less than 50% of the traces led to interpretable DNA profiles. In 30% of the cases (3/10), when the door was opened/closed with bare hands, the DNA found on the door handle led to a mixed DNA profile with the POI's DNA aligning with the major contributor. For the experiments where the AO opened/closed the door with the POI's gloves, the POI's DNA was compatible with 22% (11/50) of the mixed DNA profile, aligning with the major in 8% of the cases (4/50). The DNA profiles of the offices' occupants were observed on the door handles, but not the AO's. In addition to the results of the experiments, we show two examples of how one can assess results observed in casework. Given the possibility of indirect transfer of minute DNA quantities, this research emphasizes the need to evaluate DNA results given the activities when the POI has a legitimate reason that can explain the presence of their DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Carrara
- School of Criminal Justice, Faculty of Law, Criminal Justice and Public Administration, University of Lausanne, Batochime, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - T Hicks
- Fondation pour la Formation Continue Universitaire Lausannoise (UNIL-EPFL) & School of Criminal Justice, Batochime, Dorigny, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Forensic Genetics Unit, University Center of Legal Medicine, Lausanne-Geneva, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne 100025, Switzerland
| | - L Samie
- Forensic Genetics Unit, University Center of Legal Medicine, Lausanne-Geneva, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne 100025, Switzerland
| | - F Taroni
- School of Criminal Justice, Faculty of Law, Criminal Justice and Public Administration, University of Lausanne, Batochime, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - V Castella
- Forensic Genetics Unit, University Center of Legal Medicine, Lausanne-Geneva, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne 100025, Switzerland
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15
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How changes to the substrate's physical characteristics can influence the deposition of touch and salivary deposits. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 343:111546. [PMID: 36621057 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
An in-depth study into the physical substrate characteristics such as substrate surface roughness, topography, and physicochemical characteristics like wettability and surface free energy (SFE) was conducted to investigate the impact on the deposition and adherence of touch and salivary deposits on aluminium and polypropylene. A robust protocol was established to generate a set of substrates with a controlled linear surface roughness range (0.5-3.5 µm) in order to identify the impact of surface roughness on DNA transfer, persistence, prevalence, and recovery (DNA-TPPR). The polypropylene substrate was shown to produce fibres when artificially roughened, becoming more prominent at a higher surface roughness range, and has shown to have a direct impact on the distribution of salivary and touch deposits. At the low to moderate surface roughness range 0.5-2.0 µm, salivary and touch deposits have generally shown to follow the topographical features of the substrate they were deposited on, before a plateau of the surface roughness measure on the deposit was observed, indicating that a saturation point was reached and the grooves in the substrate were beginning to fill. Touch deposits have shown to maintain a consistent deposition height pre-surface roughness threshold, irrespective of substrate surface roughness while the deposition height of salivary deposits was heavily influenced by substrate surface roughness and topography. The substrate SFE, wettability, hydrophobicity, and the surface tension of the deposit was shown to drive the adhesion properties of the saliva and touch deposits on the respective substrates, and it was observed that this may be of importance for the improvement of the current DNA-TPPR understanding, DNA sampling protocols, and DNA transfer considerations within casework.
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16
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Sessa F, Cocimano G, Esposito M, Zuccarello P, Scoto E, Mazzeo P, Salerno M. Systematic Review of Penetrating Cardiac Injury by a Firearm: Forensic Implications. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:265. [PMID: 36673633 PMCID: PMC9859264 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11020265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Penetrating injuries of the heart, named penetrating cardiac injury (PCI), may cause hemorrhagic shock as well as cardiac tamponade, leading to death if not treated immediately. This systematic review aims to highlight the main aspects of penetrating cardiac injuries after firearm wounds. The cases of 39 subjects (age 37.05 + 15.4) were selected (6 fatal cases). Specifically, 4/39 cases involved subjects under 18 y.o.; analyzing the entrance wound, in 30/39 cases it was located in the anterior chest, 4/39 in the posterior chest, 3/39 in the shoulder/axilla area, 1/39 in the neck, and 1/39 in the pelvis (gluteus). The exit wound was found in only 3/39 cases. Several factors may influence the prognosis: firstly, prompt intervention represents a crucial point, then considering the complications related to PCI, the most important are myocardial infarction, and projectile migration with embolization. The mortality rate is related to: (1) area and severity of the heart injury; (2) duration of transport and intervention; (3) contemporary lesion to other organ/s; (4) the quantity of blood lost; (5) and presence/absence of cardiac tamponade. Based on these findings, a correct approach in the management of PCI may be considered important from a forensic point of view, both as regards to medical liability and from the trial perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sessa
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cocimano
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Vanvitelli”, 80121 Napoli, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Esposito
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Pietro Zuccarello
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Edmondo Scoto
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Pietro Mazzeo
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Monica Salerno
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy
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17
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Dash HR, Arora M, Khatoon S. Evaluation of face masks as a valuable forensic DNA evidence in the post-COVID era. Int J Legal Med 2023; 137:311-317. [PMID: 36609509 PMCID: PMC9822694 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-02945-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
After the onset of COVID-19 pandemic, a sharp surge in the usage of the face-masks throughout the globe has been observed. Pre-experiment survey of 252 individuals indicated a higher use of cotton-make masks (41%), followed by N-95 make (31%), and surgical disposable masks (26%). It was also further revealed that a higher fraction of individuals wear a face-mask more than 3 times (37%) before its disposal. In order to assess the potential usability of different mask types as forensic DNA evidence, a study was conducted on 50 healthy individuals. DNA content of different fractions such as the portion of mask covering the mouth region and the ear-piece showed a good source of host DNA. Though no statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) was found in the DNA quantity obtained from different face mask types, an increasing trend was obtained in the order: cloth make type (7.031 ± 0.31 ng), N-95 make (4.711 ± 0.15 ng), and surgical disposable type (2.17 ± 0.13 ng). The time of wearing of a face-mask showed a positive correlation with the yield of DNA irrespective of the face-mask type used. Samples retrieved from both the portions covering the mouth area and the ear-piece showed a good source of genomic DNA yielding an average of 4.82 ± 0.11 ng and 4.44 ± 0.10 ng of DNA, respectively. Irrespective of the face-mask types, number of reuse, and the portion of the mask, 66.66-96.11% of samples showed a complete autosomal STR DNA profile. This suggests that if a face-mask is found at the crime scene, it should be collected and preserved as a potential source of DNA evidence for routine forensic DNA analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirak Ranjan Dash
- School of Forensic Science, National Forensic Sciences University, Delhi Campus, Institutional Area, Rohini, New Delhi, India, 110085.
| | - Mansi Arora
- School of Forensic Science, National Forensic Sciences University, Delhi Campus, Institutional Area, Rohini, New Delhi India 110085
| | - Subia Khatoon
- School of Forensic Science, National Forensic Sciences University, Delhi Campus, Institutional Area, Rohini, New Delhi India 110085
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18
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Butler JM. Recent advances in forensic biology and forensic DNA typing: INTERPOL review 2019-2022. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2022; 6:100311. [PMID: 36618991 PMCID: PMC9813539 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2022.100311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
This review paper covers the forensic-relevant literature in biological sciences from 2019 to 2022 as a part of the 20th INTERPOL International Forensic Science Managers Symposium. Topics reviewed include rapid DNA testing, using law enforcement DNA databases plus investigative genetic genealogy DNA databases along with privacy/ethical issues, forensic biology and body fluid identification, DNA extraction and typing methods, mixture interpretation involving probabilistic genotyping software (PGS), DNA transfer and activity-level evaluations, next-generation sequencing (NGS), DNA phenotyping, lineage markers (Y-chromosome, mitochondrial DNA, X-chromosome), new markers and approaches (microhaplotypes, proteomics, and microbial DNA), kinship analysis and human identification with disaster victim identification (DVI), and non-human DNA testing including wildlife forensics. Available books and review articles are summarized as well as 70 guidance documents to assist in quality control that were published in the past three years by various groups within the United States and around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M. Butler
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Special Programs Office, 100 Bureau Drive, Mail Stop 4701, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
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19
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Tozzo P, Mazzobel E, Marcante B, Delicati A, Caenazzo L. Touch DNA Sampling Methods: Efficacy Evaluation and Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:15541. [PMID: 36555182 PMCID: PMC9779423 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Collection and interpretation of "touch DNA" from crime scenes represent crucial steps during criminal investigations, with clear consequences in courtrooms. Although the main aspects of this type of evidence have been extensively studied, some controversial issues remain. For instance, there is no conclusive evidence indicating which sampling method results in the highest rate of biological material recovery. Thus, this study aimed to describe the actual considerations on touch DNA and to compare three different sampling procedures, which were "single-swab", "double-swab", and "other methods" (i.e., cutting out, adhesive tape, FTA® paper scraping), based on the experimental results published in the recent literature. The data analysis performed shows the higher efficiency of the single-swab method in DNA recovery in a wide variety of experimental settings. On the contrary, the double-swab technique and other methods do not seem to improve recovery rates. Despite the apparent discrepancy with previous research, these results underline certain limitations inherent to the sampling procedures investigated. The application of this information to forensic investigations and laboratories could improve operative standard procedures and enhance this almost fundamental investigative tool's probative value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Tozzo
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Legal Medicine Section, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
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20
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Genetic profiling from 9 mm fired cartridge cases over 30 days. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL GENETICS SUPPLEMENT SERIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigss.2022.10.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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21
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Elwick K, Gauthier Q, Rink S, Cropper E, Kavlick MF. Recovery of DNA from fired and unfired cartridge casings: comparison of two DNA collection methods. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2022; 59:102726. [PMID: 35660851 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2022.102726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
For over 10 years, various studies have attempted to increase the recovery of DNA from ammunition by modifying the DNA collection, extraction, purification, and amplification procedures, with varying levels of success. This study focused on the "soaking" method of Montpetit & O'Donnell [1] and the "rinse-and-swab" method of Bille et al. [2]. First, testing for the presence of exogenous DNA, 210 boxed cartridges (brass, steel, and nickel-plated) from nine manufacturers were swabbed and DNA was extracted, concentrated, and quantified. Extracts that quantified > 0 ng/µL (44 of 210) were amplified and genotyped with GlobalFiler™. Of those, only one extract yielded two alleles indicating that the manufacturing and packaging of ammunition was virtually DNA free. Next, to obtain a baseline comparison of two DNA collection methods on a non-metallic substrate and identify a suitable number of cells to spot on cartridges, different DNA input amounts of primary human adult epidermal keratinocytes (HEKa) were tested. Thereafter, 300 brass and 300 nickel-plated, cartridges were spotted with HEKa cells containing ~5 ng of DNA, fired or unfired, and processed with either method. Finally, five methods representing hybrids of the soaking and rinse-and-swab methods were tested to determine if variations of those methods could be used to increase DNA yield and recovery. The results show that the soaking method consistently yielded more DNA than the rinse-and-swab method from a non-metallic substrate. However, the comparison study demonstrated that both methods performed comparably for cartridges. On average, the soaking method recovered 0.25 ng of DNA (5.1% recovery) and the rinse-and-swab method recovered 0.28 ng (5.8% recovery). However, average recoveries were significantly different among three analysts and considerable variation in yields were observed, possibly due to storage time. Furthermore, consistent with prior reports, the DNA recovered from brass casings was only 16% of that recovered from nickel-plated casings and the average yield of DNA from fired casings was reduced to 67% of unfired casings. Moreover, DNA extracts from brass or nickel-plated casings did not appear to contain amplification inhibitors and only 30/596 appeared severely degraded. Finally, both the published rinse-and-swab and soaking methods yielded more DNA than all modifications of the two methods. Overall, both methods yielded equivalent DNA quantities. Additionally, recovery of DNA from any given cartridge casing may be dependent on storage time as well as the skill, proficiency, and experience of the analyst and may reflect stochastic effects, particularly for casings containing low copy and/or degraded DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyleen Elwick
- Visiting Scientist Program, Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory Division, Research and Support Unit, 2501 Investigation Parkway, Quantico, VA 22135, USA
| | - Quentin Gauthier
- Visiting Scientist Program, Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory Division, Research and Support Unit, 2501 Investigation Parkway, Quantico, VA 22135, USA
| | - Stephanie Rink
- Visiting Scientist Program, Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory Division, Research and Support Unit, 2501 Investigation Parkway, Quantico, VA 22135, USA
| | - Emily Cropper
- Visiting Scientist Program, Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory Division, Research and Support Unit, 2501 Investigation Parkway, Quantico, VA 22135, USA
| | - Mark F Kavlick
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory Division, Research and Support Unit, 2501 Investigation Parkway, Quantico, VA 22135, USA.
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22
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Chen C, Lin Y, Yu H, Xue Y, Xu Q, Jiang L, Zhu R, Chen A, Yang Y, Xia R, Zhang X, Yang Q, Tao R, Zhu B, Li C, Zhang S. Establishing an integrated pipeline for automatic and efficient detection of trace DNA encountered in forensic applications. Sci Justice 2022; 62:50-59. [PMID: 35033328 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2021.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The analysis of trace DNA is a crucial component in forensic applications. Biological materials containing low-level DNA collected at crime scenes, such as fingerprints, can be valuable as evidence. Automatic detection of biological samples has been largely embraced in forensic applications to meet the increasing throughput requirements. However, the amount of DNA automatically retrieved from trace evidence often tends to be small and unstable, ultimately resulting in poor detection of DNA profiles. Thus, in this work, we introduced a robust DNA extraction and purification platform named Bionewtech® BN3200 (Bionewtech®, Shanghai, China) with the goal of constructing a rapid automatic detection system for trace DNA. The establishment of automatic detection system for trace DNA mainly encompassed two parts: assessing the sensitivity of automatic extraction platform and screening the optimal short tandem repeat (STR) typing kit. The sensitivity of Bionewtech® BN3200 platform based on Ultra-sensitive DNA Extraction kit was initially estimated, demonstrating that this extraction platform might contain large potential in the trace DNA extraction. For the amplification part, three sets of commercial multiplex STR typing kits were selected as candidates, and the amplified products were further genotyped on the Applied Biosystems 3500xl Genetic Analyzer. After comparation, SiFa™ 23 Plex Kit was determined as the most suitable amplification system for trace DNA. Eventually, the newly exploited trace DNA detection system was successfully implemented in the detection of fingerprints derived from glass surfaces with the five-seconds contact time. As a result, the DNA recovered from the fingerprints fluctuated approximately from 57.60 pg to 18.05 ng, in addition, over 70% of the total STR loci were detected in 75% of the fingerprint samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Chen
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China
| | - Yuan Lin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China
| | - Huan Yu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; Department of Forensic Science, Medical School of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yu Xue
- Bionewtech® Company., Ltd., Shanghai 201615, China
| | - Qiannan Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lei Jiang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China
| | - Ruxin Zhu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China
| | - Anqi Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; Department of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yue Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010030, China
| | - Ruocheng Xia
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Xiaochun Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; Department of Forensic Science, Medical School of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; Department of Forensic Science, Medical School of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Ruiyang Tao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China
| | - Bofeng Zhu
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Chengtao Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China.
| | - Suhua Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China.
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23
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van Oorschot RAH, Meakin GE, Kokshoorn B, Goray M, Szkuta B. DNA Transfer in Forensic Science: Recent Progress towards Meeting Challenges. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12111766. [PMID: 34828372 PMCID: PMC8618004 DOI: 10.3390/genes12111766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the factors that may impact the transfer, persistence, prevalence and recovery of DNA (DNA-TPPR), and the availability of data to assign probabilities to DNA quantities and profile types being obtained given particular scenarios and circumstances, is paramount when performing, and giving guidance on, evaluations of DNA findings given activity level propositions (activity level evaluations). In late 2018 and early 2019, three major reviews were published on aspects of DNA-TPPR, with each advocating the need for further research and other actions to support the conduct of DNA-related activity level evaluations. Here, we look at how challenges are being met, primarily by providing a synopsis of DNA-TPPR-related articles published since the conduct of these reviews and briefly exploring some of the actions taken by industry stakeholders towards addressing identified gaps. Much has been carried out in recent years, and efforts continue, to meet the challenges to continually improve the capacity of forensic experts to provide the guidance sought by the judiciary with respect to the transfer of DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland A. H. van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, VIC 3085, Australia
- School of Molecular Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Georgina E. Meakin
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia;
- Centre for the Forensic Sciences, Department of Security and Crime Science, University College London, London WC1H 9EZ, UK
| | - Bas Kokshoorn
- Netherlands Forensic Institute, 2497 GB The Hague, The Netherlands;
- Faculty of Technology, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, 1097 DZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mariya Goray
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5042, Australia;
| | - Bianca Szkuta
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia;
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24
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Aparna R, Iyer RS, Kumar N, Sharma A. Forensic DNA profiling of tears stains from commonly encountered substrates. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 328:111006. [PMID: 34562668 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.111006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The detection and recovery of body fluid evidence to reconstruct the involvement of people in a crime is an essential step in forensic investigation. The presence of tears is extremely rare but widely misunderstood because of its nature of secretion and low volumes found. They may be secreted in cases of sexual crimes, kidnaping, and violence among many other emotionally disturbing scenarios. It is suggestive that tears are an excellent source of epithelial cells for DNA to establish identity. They are deposited on tissue paper or handkerchief and lesser common substrates include bedding, face mask, and balaclava. Trace or touch DNA can also be retrieved from used contact lenses. Since tears can be secreted due to an emotional response, they can attract forensic analysis for identification. DNA profiling from these substrates is promising in the absence of other commonly found body fluids such as blood or saliva. The current study was done to explore the use of fresh and aged tear samples for forensic DNA analysis from three different substrates i.e., tissue paper, cotton fabric, and contact lenses. STR profiles were successfully obtained from all sample types (n = 60) with 100% allele recovery. The analysis provided consistent evidence that DNA extracted using this methodology was helpful to get reliable DNA profiles for forensics comparable with that from blood or saliva for personal identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Aparna
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be-University), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
| | - R Shanti Iyer
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be-University), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India; Dr.N.S.A.M First Grade College, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
| | - Naresh Kumar
- Regional Forensic Science Laboratory, Central Range, Mandi 175001, Himachal Pradesh, India.
| | - Arun Sharma
- State Forensic Science Laboratory, Directorate of Forensic Science Services, Junga, Shimla 171218, Himachal Pradesh, India.
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25
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Bathrick AS, Norsworthy S, Plaza DT, McCormick MN, Slack D, Ramotowski RS. DNA recovery after sequential processing of latent fingerprints on copy paper. J Forensic Sci 2021; 67:149-160. [PMID: 34498754 PMCID: PMC9291209 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Forensic examiners must determine whether both latent fingerprint development and DNA profiling can be performed on the same area of an evidence item and, if only one is possible, which examination offers the best chance for identification. Latent fingerprints can be enhanced by targeting different components of fingerprint residues with sequential chemical treatments. This study investigated the effects of single-reagent and sequential latent fingerprint development processes on downstream DNA analysis to determine the point at which latent fingerprint development should be stopped to allow for DNA recovery. Latent fingerprints deposited on copy paper by one donor were developed using three sequential processes: 1,8-diazafluoren-9-one (DFO) → ninhydrin → physical developer (PD); 1,2-indanedione-zinc (IND-Zn) → ninhydrin → PD; and IND-Zn → ninhydrin → Oil Red O (ORO) → PD. Samples were examined after the addition of each chemical treatment. DNA was collected with cotton swabs, extracted, quantified, and amplified. DNA yields, peak heights, number of alleles obtained, and percentage of DNA profiles eligible for CODIS upload were examined. DNA profiles were obtained with varying degrees of success, depending on the number and type of treatments used for latent fingerprint development. The treatments that were found to be the least harmful to downstream DNA analysis were IND-Zn and IND-Zn/laser, and the most detrimental treatments were DFO, DFO/laser, and PD. In general, as the number of treatments increase, the opportunities for DNA loss or damage also increase, and it is preferable to use fewer treatments when developing latent fingerprints prior to downstream DNA processing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah Norsworthy
- Forensic Technology Center of Excellence, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Mallory N McCormick
- Forensic Services Division, United States Secret Service, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Donia Slack
- Forensic Technology Center of Excellence, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Robert S Ramotowski
- Forensic Services Division, United States Secret Service, Washington, DC, USA
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26
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Procopio N, Lovisolo F, Sguazzi G, Ghignone S, Voyron S, Migliario M, Renò F, Sellitto F, D'Angiolella G, Tozzo P, Caenazzo L, Gino S. "Touch microbiome" as a potential tool for forensic investigation: A pilot study. J Forensic Leg Med 2021; 82:102223. [PMID: 34343925 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2021.102223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Human skin hosts a variety of microbes that can be transferred to surfaces ("touch microbiome"). These microorganisms can be considered as forensic markers similarly to "touch DNA". With this pilot study, we wanted to evaluate the transferability and persistence of the "touch microbiome" on a surface after the deposition of a fingerprint and its exposure for 30 days at room temperature. Eleven volunteers were enrolled in the study. Skin microbiome samples were collected by swabbing the palm of their hands; additionally, donors were asked to touch a glass microscope slide to deposit their fingerprints, that were then swabbed. Both human and microbial DNA was isolated and quantified. Amelogenin locus and 16 human STRs were amplified, whereas the V4 region of 16 S rRNA gene was sequenced using Illumina MiSeq platform. STR profiles were successfully typed for 5 out of 22 "touch DNA" samples, while a microbiome profile was obtained for 20 out of 22 "touch microbiome" samples. Six skin core microbiome taxa were identified, as well as unique donor characterizing taxa. These unique taxa may have relevance for personal identification studies and may be useful to provide forensic intelligence information also when "touch DNA" fails. Additional future studies including greater datasets, additional time points and a greater number of surfaces may clarify the applicability of "touch microbiome" studies to real forensic contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Procopio
- Forensic Science Research Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, NE1 8ST, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK.
| | - Flavia Lovisolo
- Department of Health Science, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via Solaroli 17, 28100 Novara, Italy.
| | - Giulia Sguazzi
- Department of Health Science, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via Solaroli 17, 28100 Novara, Italy.
| | - Stefano Ghignone
- Istituto per La Protezione Sostenibile Delle Piante - SS Torino - Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche, C/o Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Torino, V.le P.A. Mattioli 25, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Samuele Voyron
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Torino, V.le P.A. Mattioli 25, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Mario Migliario
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via Solaroli 17, 28100 Novara, Italy.
| | - Filippo Renò
- Department of Health Science, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via Solaroli 17, 28100 Novara, Italy.
| | - Federica Sellitto
- Forensic Science Research Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, NE1 8ST, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK.
| | - Gabriella D'Angiolella
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Pamela Tozzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Forensic Genetics, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35121 Padova, Italy.
| | - Luciana Caenazzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Forensic Genetics, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35121 Padova, Italy.
| | - Sarah Gino
- Department of Health Science, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via Solaroli 17, 28100 Novara, Italy.
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27
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Griffin A, Kirkbride KP, Henry J, Painter B, Linacre A. DNA on drugs! A preliminary investigation of DNA deposition during the handling of illicit drug capsules. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2021; 54:102559. [PMID: 34225041 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2021.102559] [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: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
DNA profiling from capsules and tablets offers a complementary tool to that of chemical profiling when investigating the manufacture and trade in illicit drugs. By sampling the outside of capsules, individuals who may have handled them during production, assembly or distribution may have deposited their DNA and can be identified if matched to a nominated profile or one on a relevant DNA database. The profiles can also be compared to those found on other capsules to potentially link various drug seizures. This study sampled the exterior of capsules after they had been handled in a controlled scenario to determine if informative DNA profiles could be generated from this brief contact. Two individuals of intermediate shedder status washed their hands and waited for 30 min before handling ten gelatine, vegetable, and enteric vegetable capsules each (n = 60). Contact was made for 15 s. Each capsule was swabbed and DNA isolated. The amount of recovered human DNA was quantified and profiled using the Verifiler Plus DNA profiling kit. Profiles were generated from 82% (49/60) of capsules tested with LR values above 1 × 103 for the inclusion of the volunteer as a contributor. Inhibition of the PCR was detected in 24 of the 60 samples, however 16 of these still produced informative profiles when sufficient template DNA was available and only mild inhibition was detected, or by overcoming inhibition by dilution of the DNA extract. This pilot study demonstrates the potential for forensic science laboratories to recover human DNA from the exterior surface of capsules which are commonly used to encase illicit drugs such as MDMA, thus enabling both biological and chemical profiling methods to contribute to the investigation of clandestine drug production and distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Griffin
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia.
| | - K Paul Kirkbride
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
| | - Julianne Henry
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia; Forensic Science SA, GPO Box 2790, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Ben Painter
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia; Forensic Science SA, GPO Box 2790, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Adrian Linacre
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
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28
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Meakin GE, Kokshoorn B, Oorschot RAH, Szkuta B. Evaluating forensic
DNA
evidence: Connecting the dots. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/wfs2.1404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Georgina E. Meakin
- Centre for Forensic Science University of Technology Sydney Ultimo NSW Australia
- Centre for the Forensic Sciences, Department of Security and Crime Science University College London London UK
| | - Bas Kokshoorn
- Netherlands Forensic Institute The Hague The Netherlands
| | - Roland A. H. Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department Macleod Australia
- School of Molecular Sciences La Trobe University Bundoora Australia
| | - Bianca Szkuta
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department Macleod Australia
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences Deakin University Geelong Australia
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29
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The impact of chimerism on DNA-based human identification from skin surface cells of post-allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCST) patients. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 318:110636. [PMID: 33307474 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2020.110636] [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: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The use of biological traces recovered from touched or handled items increased with the advance of the forensic analysis system. Thus, DNA profiles obtained from touch DNA became a useful tool in forensic investigation. However, a chimeric person with more than one chromosomal population can be challenging for a forensic analyst. We investigated the genetic profile in blood, buccal swab, and skin swabs from twenty-four recipients aged 21-63 years who underwent a matched sibling allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with no sign of skin graft versus host disease. Autosomal short tandem repeats genotyping was performed to evaluate chimerism status at 15 loci along with gender marker Amelogenin. According to our results, donor chimerism was detected in all recipient's blood samples, while in buccal swabs, five recipients showed no presence of donor-derived cells in their genotype. Epithelial cells swabbed from hand fingertips were not devoid of donor-derived cells since all recipients showed high chimerism (39.69%-96.66%) in their genotypes. A significant change in chimerism was seen among various types of biological samples (p<0.05). No correlations were observed between chimerism and recipient age, gender, or time after transplant (p> 0.05). The loci D21S11, D8S1179, and FGA were the most informative, whereas D13S317, Vwa, and TOPX were the least informative STR markers. We concluded that touch DNA from a person who has undergone a successful allogeneic HSCTs should not be considered as reliable evidence for human identifications. Therefore, necessary precautions must be taken to avoid false identification and miscarriage of justice.
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30
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Sakurada K, Watanabe K, Akutsu T. Current Methods for Body Fluid Identification Related to Sexual Crime: Focusing on Saliva, Semen, and Vaginal Fluid. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10090693. [PMID: 32937964 PMCID: PMC7555023 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10090693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Although, DNA typing plays a decisive role in the identification of persons from blood and body fluid stains in criminal investigations, clarifying the origin of extracted DNA has also been considered an essential task in proving a criminal act. This review introduces the importance of developing precise methods for body fluid identification. Body fluid identification has long relied on enzymatic methods as a presumptive assay and histological or serological methods as a confirmatory assay. However, because the latest DNA typing methods can rapidly obtain results from very small and even old, poorly preserved samples, the development of a novel corresponding body fluid identification method is required. In particular, an immunochromatographic method has been introduced to identify saliva and semen from sexual crimes. In addition, for vaginal fluid identification, attempts have been made in the past decade to introduce a method relying on body fluid-specific mRNA expression levels. At present, the development of molecular biological methods involving microRNA, DNA methylation, and resident bacterial DNA is ongoing. Therefore, in criminal investigations, body fluid identification is an essential task for correctly applying the results of DNA typing, although further research and development are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koichi Sakurada
- Department of Forensic Dentistry, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-5803-4387
| | - Ken Watanabe
- First Department of Forensic Science, National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan; (K.W.); (T.A.)
| | - Tomoko Akutsu
- First Department of Forensic Science, National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan; (K.W.); (T.A.)
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31
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Gosch A, Euteneuer J, Preuß-Wössner J, Courts C. DNA transfer to firearms in alternative realistic handling scenarios. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2020; 48:102355. [PMID: 32707471 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2020.102355] [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: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Firearms are the most relevant items of evidence in gun-related crimes, likely bearing various traces facilitating an objective reconstruction of the crime. Trace DNA recovered from firearm surfaces might help to identify individual(s) having handled the firearm and thereby possibly to link the firearm and the corresponding shooter, however, the interpretation of DNA traces on handled items can be challenging and requires a detailed understanding of various factors impacting DNA prevalence, transfer, persistence and recovery. Herein, we aimed at improving our understanding of factors affecting the variability of trace DNA characteristics recovered from firearms handled in gun-related crimes: Skin contact traces were recovered from various outer surfaces of two types of firearms handled in four realistic, casework-relevant handling scenarios and the corresponding trace characteristics (DNA yield, number of contributors, relative profile contribution for known and unknown contributors, LRs) were compared. Trace DNA characteristics differed distinctly between handling conditions, firearm and surface types as well as handling individuals and intraindividual deposits emphasizing the variability and complexity of trace DNA profile composition expected to be recovered from firearms after realistic handling scenarios. The obtained results can provide useful insights for forensic experts evaluating alternative activity level propositions in gun-related crimes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annica Gosch
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Jan Euteneuer
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Johanna Preuß-Wössner
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Cornelius Courts
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany.
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32
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Neckovic A, van Oorschot RAH, Szkuta B, Durdle A. Investigation of direct and indirect transfer of microbiomes between individuals. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 45:102212. [PMID: 31812098 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.102212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The human microbiome encompasses the fungi, bacteria and viruses that live on, within, and immediately surrounding the body. Microbiomes have potential utility in forensic science as an evidentiary tool to link or exclude persons of interest associated with criminal activities. Research has shown the microbiome is individualised, and that personal microbial signatures can be recovered from surfaces such as phones, shoes and fabrics. Before the human microbiome may be used as an investigative tool, further research is required to investigate the utility and potential limitations surrounding microbial profiling. This includes the detectability of microbial transfer between individuals or items, the associated risks (such as contamination events) and the applicability of microbial profiling for forensic purposes. This research aimed to identify whether an individual's distinguishable microbiome could be transferred to another individual and onto substrates, and vice versa. Paper, cotton, and glass surfaces were chosen to represent a range of substrate matrices. The study involved six participants placed into three pairs; participants took part in two modes of transfer. Transfer Mode 1 involved the pair shaking hands, followed by rubbing a substrate in their right hand. Transfer Mode 2 involved individuals rubbing a substrate in their left hand, swapping substrates with their partner and then rubbing the swapped substrate in their left hand. 16S rRNA sequencing was performed on the extracted microbial DNA from participant and substrate samples. Quantitative Insights into Microbial Ecology 2 (QIIME 2) was used for sequence quality control and beta (between-sample) diversity analyses and taxonomic assignment. Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) based on Jaccard distances was visualised through Emperor software to determine the phylogenetic similarity of bacterial communities between participants and among participant pairs. Statistical testing through PERMANOVA revealed significant differences in the Jaccard distances between each participant pair (P < 0.001), highlighting not only the potential distinguishability of skin microbiomes among individuals, but also the clustering effect observed between participant pairs due to the potential transfer of hand-associated microbiomes between individuals. The study demonstrated that transfer of the human skin microbiome had occurred between all participant pairs, regardless of substrate type or mode of transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Neckovic
- Deakin University, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Waurn Ponds, Australia.
| | - Roland A H van Oorschot
- Victoria Police Forensic Services Centre, Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Macleod, Australia; School of Molecular Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Bianca Szkuta
- Deakin University, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Waurn Ponds, Australia; Victoria Police Forensic Services Centre, Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Macleod, Australia
| | - Annalisa Durdle
- Deakin University, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Waurn Ponds, Australia
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