International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 10 Issue: 05 | May 2023
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
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Isolation and Extraction of DNA from Dandruff: A Novel Approach for Forensic Science Pawan Mandal1 , Isha Rajput2 1Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Science, RIMT University, Punjab, India
----------------------------------------------------------------------------***------------------------------------------------------------------------Abstract Forensic analysis plays a critical role in criminal investigations, and obtaining DNA from biological samples is a crucial step in this process. Traditionally, blood and saliva have been used as primary sources of DNA in forensic investigations. However, dandruff, the flaky skin that sheds from the scalp, has recently emerged as a novel source for forensic DNA analysis. This paper describes a method for isolating and extracting DNA from dandruff, which has the potential to revolutionize the field of forensic science. The approach presented here is simple and cost-effective, making it accessible to laboratories with limited resources. The method was validated by analyzing DNA isolated from dandruff samples obtained from volunteers, and the results demonstrated that the approach provides high-quality DNA suitable for downstream applications. The use of dandruff as a source of forensic DNA has several advantages over traditional sources. Firstly, dandruff is more easily accessible and less invasive to obtain than blood or saliva. Secondly, dandruff is less susceptible to degradation, making it a more stable source of DNA. Finally, dandruff contains a higher concentration of human DNA than other biological samples, increasing the likelihood of obtaining a complete DNA profile. Overall, the results of this study suggest that dandruff could represent a valuable source of forensic DNA and have a significant impact on the field of forensic science. The approach described here provides a simple and cost-effective method for laboratories to obtain high-quality DNA from dandruff samples, potentially improving the accuracy and efficiency of forensic investigations.
Keywords: Dandruff; Forensic analysis; Isolation and extraction; Forensic Investigation. INTRODUCTION Dandruff is a common condition characterized by the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp [1]. Although the exact cause of dandruff is not fully understood, it is believed to involve a complex interaction between the scalp’s microbiome, sebum production, and inflammation [2]. One of the potential factors that may contribute to dandruff is the presence of Malassezia species, a type of yeast that naturally inhabits the scalp [3]. Malassezia species are able to break down sebum, a waxy substance secreted by the sebaceous glands in the scalp, into various compounds, including oleic acid [4]. Oleic acid can then trigger an inflammatory response in some individuals, leading to flaking and itching [5]. DNA extraction from dandruff is an innovative technique that has revolutionized the field of forensic science [6]. The human body constantly sheds dead skin cells, which include dandruff, and these cells contain valuable genetic information that can be used for forensic identification of individuals [7]. The use of DNA extracted from dandruff has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its high success rate and reliability [8]. This technique has proven to be an effective tool in identifying individuals in forensic investigations, and its potential applications extend beyond the criminal justice system [9]. The aim of this research paper Is to explore the use of DNA extracted from dandruff for forensic identification of individuals. To achieve this, we collected dandruff samples from 50 individuals and analyzed the extracted DNA using various molecular techniques. Our study sheds light on the potential of dandruff DNA analysis as a reliable and cost-effective method for forensic identification. Historically, forensic identification was limited to fingerprints, dental records, and physical characteristics [10]. However, the advent of DNA technology has revolutionized the field, and DNA analysis has become the gold standard in forensic identification [11]. DNA analysis allows for highly accurate identification of individuals based on their unique genetic profile [12]. The analysis of DNA from various biological samples such as blood, saliva, and hair follicles has been extensively used in forensic investigations [13]. However, the use of DNA extracted from dandruff is a relatively new technique. The extraction of DNA from dandruff has several advantages over other biological samples [14]. Firstly, dandruff is a non-invasive sample that
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