A Three-Locus, PCR-based Method for Forensic Identification of Plant Material

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Molecular Biology
• Botany

Background:

• Plant residue is a valuable but underutilized resource in forensic investigations.
• Current plant species identification methods can be enhanced by DNA-based approaches.
• Plant DNA barcoding faces challenges due to genomic sequence complexities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop DNA-based tools for identifying plant residue in forensic contexts.
• To overcome limitations in plant DNA barcoding for species discrimination.

Main Methods:

• Identified and amplified specific genetic loci (rbcL, trnL-F, rrn18) using broad-spectrum primers.
• Sequenced amplified DNA from various household plant species.
• Designed species-targeted primers based on obtained DNA sequences.

Main Results:

• Successfully amplified and sequenced target genetic loci from diverse plant samples.
• Developed species-specific primers capable of differentiating among 21 tested plant species.
• Demonstrated the potential for accurate plant residue source determination.

Conclusions:

• The developed DNA barcoding strategy effectively identifies plant residue sources.
• This method offers a significant advancement for forensic botany.
• Enables more precise analysis of plant-derived evidence in criminal investigations.