I just had to write a blog on this. It's in today's issue of Forensic Science Magazine, and involves Sam Houston State University's Forensic Science Professors!
Our professors that work at the STAFS facility, mainly Dr. Hughes-Stamm and Dr. Gangitano, just obtained a grant to do research on better ways to preserve DNA after a mass disaster along with identifying the DNA quicker.
Their research will consist of testing different "home made" and commercial solutions in hopes of finding a solution that tissue samples can be placed in without out being affected by climate conditions. If this can be done, DNA will last much longer, in return having a longer readability. DNA genotyping and the process of identifying DNA would take considerably less time if this research proves to be successful.
Here's the link:
Sam Houston State to Research Quicker Identification of Mass Disaster Victims
I remember Dr. Hughes-Stamm's seminar lecture about this information. I was so intrigued as this is really interesting stuff, and I feel its important to be able to identify remains post-disasters if for no other reason then to be able to notify the families of those lost.
ReplyDeleteI've watched a presentation by her about this same thing too and also found it very interesting. You are right about at least being able to notify the family.
Delete