Volume: 3, 2024
3rd International PhD Student’s Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland:
ENVIRONMENT – PLANT – ANIMAL – PRODUCT
Abstract number: A008
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL3.A008
Published online: 24 April 2024
ICDSUPL, 3, A008 (2024)
Unraveling mysteries. The role of animal DNA in forensic investigations
Aleksandra Figura1*, Magdalena Gryzińska1
1 Sub-Department of General and Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biological Basis of Animal Production, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 13 Akademicka St., 20-950 Lublin, Poland
* Corresponding author: aleksandra.figura@up.lublin.pl
Abstract
Research on animal DNA for forensic purposes is becoming increasingly common and important. It is used, among other things, to solve criminal and civil cases, analyze kinship, determine paternity, identify species, and reconstruct ancestral lines. Virtually every species of animal can be genetically identified with a high degree of certainty, although there are differences related to methods specific to each species or breed. As the importance of DNA testing in forensic zoology grows, it is crucial to ensure that these processes are carried out in accordance with established standards, similar to those used in human identification procedures. Research on animal DNA for forensic purposes is extremely important, particularly in solving issues related to the illegal trade in goods and the protection of endangered species. Many of these activities aim to identify the species of origin of a given product, such as bone or skin fragments used in crafts or medical products. The use of DNA technology allows for precise determination of whether a given product originates from a protected species, which is crucial in prosecuting and preventing crimes against nature. Consequently, DNA testing of animals is increasingly used to track illegal trade in wild animals and to combat illegal breeding and trade of endangered species. Therefore, standards regarding the quality and methodology of animal DNA testing in a forensic context are essential to ensure the effectiveness of these actions and to achieve the desired goals of environmental protection.
Keywords: animal DNA, species identification, illegal wildlife trade
How to cite
A. Figura, M. Gryzińska, 2024. Unraveling mysteries. The role of animal DNA in forensic investigations. In: 3rd International PhD Student’s Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland: Environment – Plant – Animal – Product. https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL3.A008