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06:18
Optimized Bone Sampling Protocols for the Retrieval of Ancient DNA from Archaeological Remains
Published on: November 30, 2021
Field contamination of skeletonized human remains with exogenous DNA
Suni M Edson1, Alexander F Christensen
1Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory, 115 Purple Heart Drive, DAFB, DE 19902, USA. Suni.M.Edson@us.army.mil
Journal of Forensic Sciences
|September 22, 2012
Summary
Contamination is a challenge when identifying missing service members using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from skeletal remains. Laboratory controls effectively prevent reporting of modern contaminant DNA as authentic remains.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- The Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory analyzes over 800 skeletal samples annually for the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command.
- Analysis focuses on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from degraded skeletal remains of missing U.S. service members.
Observation:
- Field collection of skeletal remains presents challenges in preventing modern DNA contamination.
- Exogenous DNA transfer can occur during sample collection and processing.
Findings:
- Four cases illustrate the potential for contamination in skeletal DNA analysis.
- Laboratory controls successfully identified and eliminated contaminant DNA in these cases.
- Controls prevented the false reporting of exogenous DNA from faunal or human sources lacking endogenous DNA.
Implications:
- Robust laboratory protocols are crucial for accurate identification of remains.
- Effective contamination controls ensure the integrity of forensic DNA identification.
- This work supports the accurate identification of missing service members.
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