An in-field evaluation of rapid DNA instruments for disaster victim identification.

In 2019 and 2020, disaster victim identification (DVI) simulations were conducted at the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research. Whole and fragmented cadavers were positioned to replicate a building collapse scenario and left to decompose for up to 4 weeks. This study evaluated the utility of the ANDE™ 6C Rapid DNA System and the RapidHITTM ID System for DVI in the field and mortuary. Applying post-mortem nail and tissue biopsy samples showed promise, with the added benefit of minimally invasive collection procedures and limited preparation requirements. The preferred platform will depend on a number of factors, including its intended use and operating environment.

Current and emerging tools for the recovery of genetic information from post mortem samples: New directions for disaster victim identification.

DNA profiling has emerged as the gold standard for the identification of victims in mass disaster events providing an ability to identify victims, reassociate remains and provide investigative leads at a relatively low cost, and with a high degree of discrimination. For the majority of samples, DNA-based identification can be achieved in a fast, streamlined and high-throughput manner. However, a large number of remains will be extremely compromised, characteristic of mass disasters. Advances in technology and in the field of forensic biology have increased the options for the collection, sampling, preservation and processing of samples for DNA profiling. Furthermore, recent developments now allow a vast array of new genetic markers and genotyping techniques to extract as much genetic information from a sample as possible, ensuring that identification is not only accurate but also possible where material is degraded, or limited. Where historically DNA profiling has involved comparison with ante mortem samples or relatives, now DNA profiling can direct investigators towards putative victims or relatives, for comparison through the determination of externally visible characteristics, or biogeographical ancestry. This paper reviews the current and emerging tools available for maximising the recovery of genetic information from post mortem samples in a disaster victim identification context.