Genetic Genealogy Using Y-STR Markers in Conjunction with Reverse Parentage Testing Aid Efforts in Human Identification and Familial Search Investigation (Case Study)

Abstract

The personal identification of victim of mass disasters is one of the powers of forensic DNA typing. Genetic genealogy using Y-chromosome STR markers and reverse parentage testing (RPT) aid efforts in familial search investigation. A Dornier aircraft with commandants on board was declared overdue and a month later, skeletal remains found under sea, were subjected to DNA analysis. The case was quite challenging as the skeletal remains exhibited different rates of degradation. The skeletal remains along with reference samples from blood relatives of victims were subjected to different protocols to generate reproducible and typeable, amelogenin, autosomal and Y-STR profiles. Y-chromosome analysis in conjunction with RPT led to establishment of victim identity and rendered fruitful results in familial search investigation.