Honors Projects

Abstract

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a highly-susceptible molecule used in forensic analysis that can be degraded. Degraded DNA is usually unfit for analysis because information is lost as the DNA breaks, resulting in poor profiles and bad statistics. This paper looked at ways to counter or reverse the damage via mini-STRs, SNPs, and MDA. There was no methodology that was clearly better than another; all three mechanisms need to be more thoroughly researched as they have unique pros and cons to consider before they can be fully implemented. No perfect DNA damage reversal has been discovered, so perhaps our focus should shift from reversing the damage to developing smaller primers and more accurate amplification methods.

Major

Forensic Biology

Publication Date

Spring 4-27-2021

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