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A DNA-based method for distinction of fly artifacts from human bloodstains

Authors :
Alessandra Iuvaro
Arianna Giorgetti
Guido Pelletti
Elena Giovannini
Denise Gianfreda
Susi Pelotti
Carla Bini
Bini C.
Giorgetti A.
Iuvaro A.
Giovannini E.
Gianfreda D.
Pelletti G.
Pelotti S.
Source :
International Journal of Legal Medicine
Publication Year :
2021

Abstract

Fly artifacts resulting from insect activity could act as confounding factors on a crime scene and interfere with bloodstain pattern analysis interpretation. Several techniques have been proposed to distinguish fly artifacts from human bloodstains based on morphological approach and immunological assay, but a DNA-based method has not been developed so far. Even if in forensic genetic investigations the detection of human DNA is generally the primary goal, fly artifacts can provide useful information on the dynamics of crime events. The present study provides a molecular method to detect fly DNA from artifacts deposited by Calliphora vomitoria after feeding on human blood through the analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase gene subunit I (COI). Fly artifacts originated from digestive process and of different morphology spanning from red and brownish/light brown, circular and elliptical stains to artifacts with sperm-like tail or a tear-shaped body were collected. The COI amplification was successfully obtained in 94% of fly artifact samples. The method showed high sensitivity and reproducibility, and no human DNA contamination was observed, offering specificity for use in confirmatory test. This molecular approach permits the distinction of fly artifacts from genuine bloodstains and the identification of fly’s species through the COI region sequencing by protocols usually applied in forensic genetic laboratories. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00414-021-02643-7.

Details

ISSN :
14371596
Volume :
135
Issue :
6
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
International journal of legal medicine
Accession number :
edsair.doi.dedup.....04a468d06f961a187721e1b332182d5b