When collecting DNA, DNA containing human cells is common in criminal investigations (representative)
New Delhi:
A new study finds that human DNA in the air can be used for forensic analysis of crime scenes that have been scrubbed of fingerprint and trace evidence.
The researchers explain that it is unlikely that perpetrators could completely prevent their DNA from being released into the environment, as human DNA can be found in the air after people speak or even breathe.
While collecting trace amounts of DNA containing human cells is common in criminal investigations, researchers say “environmental DNA” (eDNA) from solid surfaces, soil, water and air is providing new ways to collect evidence.
A research team led by Australia’s Flinders University compared samples taken from office and home air conditioning units and found that human DNA can be collected on the surfaces and in the air of these units, with air samples likely to represent recent occupations as well as being representative of previous residences. surface sample.
Emily Bibbo, a PhD student in Flinders University’s School of Science, said: “Our research also shows that human DNA can be collected through conditioned air, which further supports the idea that human DNA can be found in the air and deposited on surfaces.” and engineering, authors of the study published in the journal Electrophoresis.
Mariya Goray, senior lecturer in forensic science at Flinders University, said biological material is often collected from crime scenes and exhibits, and these new methods have the potential to identify regular users and visitors of a room.
“Even with forensic awareness, it is unlikely that an average criminal would be able to completely prevent the release of their DNA into the environment,” says Mariya Goray. “We now know that eDNA and eRNA shed from sources such as skin or saliva can “We may be able to use (eDNA) as evidence to prove whether someone was in a room, even if they were wearing gloves or wiping down surfaces to remove evidence,” Bibbo said. “
The researchers recommend follow-up studies to determine the best location for air collection devices, as well as the appropriate time after a crime to test and obtain DNA of interest, if present.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
