The Impact of Different Environments on DNA degradation in Decomposing Mammalian Specimens

Abstract

McKenzie Lamm, Dept of Natural Sciences, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV, 26550, and Kristy Henson, Dept of Natural Sciences, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV, 26550. The Impact of Different Environments on DNA degradation in Decomposing Mammalian Specimens

The purpose of this project was to quantify DNA at various stages of degradation during decomposition. Mammalian specimens were placed in five different sealed containers and monitored for temperature, humidity, and stage of decomposition. Multiple tissue swabs were taken weekly from each specimen, then DNA was extracted using a PrepFiler Forensic DNA Extraction Kit, then underwent PCR where DNA quantity was recorded via nanodrop before and after PCR. Samples were then diluted and sequenced using a SeqStudios Genetic Analyzer. Results show a change in the quality and quantity of DNA as the specimen decomposed, the genetic analyzer was able to produce profiles with the presence of DNA degradation, and the enclosure of the specimen did not impact the ability to sequence DNA samples.