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Rapid High-throughput Species Identification of Botanical Material Using Direct Analysis in Real Time High Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Published on: October 2, 2016
Forensic botany: usability of bryophyte material in forensic studies
Viivi Virtanen1, Helena Korpelainen, Kirsi Kostamo
1Department of Applied Biology. University of Helsinki, Finland. viivi.virtanen@helsinki.fi <viivi.virtanen@helsinki.fi>
Forensic Science International
|February 16, 2007
Summary
Bryophytes, or mosses, are highly relevant for forensic science. Plant fragments readily attach to footwear and their DNA remains intact for profiling, making them valuable botanical evidence.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Botany
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Botanical evidence is crucial in forensic investigations.
- Bryophytes (mosses) are ubiquitous and possess unique characteristics.
- Their potential in forensic science remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the relevance of bryophyte material in forensic studies.
- To determine the adherence of bryophyte fragments to footwear.
- To assess the DNA quality of bryophytes after prolonged storage.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments were conducted involving footwear and bryophyte samples.
- Plant fragments were collected from footwear after outdoor use.
- DNA was extracted and genotyped from aged bryophyte samples.
Main Results:
- Bryophyte fragments effectively attach to various types of footwear.
- These fragments persist on shoes even after walking on dry surfaces.
- DNA profiling is feasible from bryophyte samples stored for 18 months under adverse conditions.
Conclusions:
- Bryophytes are highly suitable for use as botanical evidence in forensic investigations.
- Their ability to adhere to footwear and preserve DNA makes them reliable.
- Clonal growth patterns further enhance their utility in forensic applications.
