Body Fluid Identification Using DNA Extraction Waste Product

Authors

Rachel M. Tolces, Florida International UniversityFollow

Document Type

Thesis

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Major/Program

Forensic Science

First Advisor's Name

Dr. Steven Lee

First Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Chair

Second Advisor's Name

Dr. Bruce McCord

Second Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Co-Chair

Third Advisor's Name

Dr. Sara Zapico

Third Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Member

Keywords

Biochemistry

Date of Defense

6-30-2022

Abstract

In many situations, the amount of DNA evidence recovered at a crime scene is at trace levels, limiting the amount of testing that can be done on the evidence. Because genetic profiling is generally considered the most imperative assay to be completed on a DNA sample, in situations where yield is low, DNA extracts may not be utilized for any other purpose. Fortunately, an alternate source of DNA may exist by utilizing the waste products resulting from DNA extraction.

The goal of this project was to a protocol for recovery of DNA from robotic extraction waste and utilizing this DNA to perform epigenetic based body fluid identification. Once extracted the sample will be analyzed using bisulfite conversion and pyrosequencing. In this process, specific loci were amplified and sequenced to detect the presence of buccal cells, blood, semen, or vaginal epithelia. By utilizing this method, information can be obtained about the origin of an unknown DNA sample that can provide crucial information in sexual assault and child abuse cases.

The method developed to recover waste may also be applicable to other bioanalytical measurements such as clinical diagnostics and pathology when sample quantity would otherwise limit additional or repeat testing.

Identifier

FIDC010832

Recommended Citation

Tolces, Rachel M., "Body Fluid Identification Using DNA Extraction Waste Product" (2022). FIU Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 5104.
https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/5104