Detecting latent DNA in wildlife forensic science investigations

Abstract

• Wildlife crime may occur in remote environments with many days gap before any sampling. • 5 people touched six substrates which were then placed outside for up to 28 days. • A decline in cell number was recorded from items sampled at 7, 14 and 28 days. • Cells could be visualised after exposure to the environment for 28 days. • Full DNA profiles were generated from samples even after 28 days exposure.