Forensic Biochemistry: DNA Testing of Plant Material

 

Anna M. Wilson, Susan J. Karcher, Clint Chapple, and Jo Cusumano

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2003, Volume 24

Abstract

Samples of soil were recovered from an Indiana murder victim’s car and shoes. This experiment isolates DNA from plants grown from seeds that were found on the shoes. Two different ecotypes of a weed grow in different areas of Indiana. This difference can be detected using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). DNA is extracted from the seedlings using the REDExtract-N-Ampâ„¢ Plant PCR Kit. Specific regions of the isolated DNA are then amplified by PCR. The PCR products are analyzed by gel electrophoresis and the results used to determine which suspect was in the same area as the victim. With data from previous exercises the students can determine who committed the murder. An alternate CTAB DNA isolation procedure is also included.

Keywords:  forensic science, PCR, Dot-blot hybridization, human identity testing, DNA profiling, DNA fingerprinting

Louisiana State University (2002)