DNA and fingerprint analyses of debris from improvised explosive device.

ABSTRACT

Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) can be assembled directly from daily items and are easily purchasable and distributable internationally, owing to the absence of government export permits. Hence, their origins are not readily revealed, and they can pose significant adverse effects despite their low manufacturing costs. In this study, the feasibility of identifying fingerprints and deoxyribo nucleic acid (DNA) profiles in various IEDs and samples is investigated. Additionally, the relative positions of debris are identified to set the scope of on-site inspection at terrorist scenes. All samples are categorized into porous and non-porous materials, and LMG test, extraction, quantification, and short tandem repeat (STR) analysis are conducted to view the DNA profile. For fingerprinting, 1,2-IND and CA are utilized for development, followed by quality-control analysis. Although sample acquisition is impossible in some experiments, DNA profiling and fingerprint analysis are possible for all, thus allowing mapping to be performed. This study shows that even when terrorist bombing occurs, if evidence with minimal damage is detected at the scene, then STR profiles and fingerprints can be obtained at a level suitable for AFIS usage. Furthermore, accumulating mapping results from numerous experiments significantly aids in determining the scope of evidence acquisition.