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Updated: Jan 3, 2026

Enhanced Genetic Analysis of Single Human Bioparticles Recovered by Simplified Micromanipulation from Forensic ‘Touch DNA’ Evidence
Published on: March 9, 2015
Ocular swabs on exhumed bodies: An alternative to the collection of "classical" tissue samples in forensic genetics
V Agostini1, P Bailo2, E Chiti1
1NGB Genetics srl Laboratory, Via R. Grieco, 5/1A, 40133 Bologna, Italy.
Abstract:
We present the results obtained on DNA extracted from ocular (scleral/corneal) swabs collected from exhumed bodies at different times of burial. To our knowledge, there are no publications in the scientific forensic literature dealing with sclera/cornea as a source of DNA in the forensic laboratory. The obtained results demonstrate that cornea/sclera swabbing might be a promising alternative to the sampling of other tissues for DNA extraction even in highly putrefied bodies.

