Forensic DNA Investigation of Incest and Murder Using GlobalFiler™ and YFiler Plus™ Kits

Abstract

Incest is a sexual activity between close biological relatives prohibited from getting married due to customs or law. This study examines a forensic case involving a brother and sister, where specialized forensic procedures were applied. DNA samples play a vital role in forensic investigations, where they can provide critical evidence for identifying perpetrators. Biological samples were taken from the victim, the suspect, and crime scene evidence (a pair of male pants and a female scarf). DNA extraction was performed using EZ1&2® DNA Investigator Kits, and quantified by the Quantifiler Trio DNA Quantification Kit. Amplification was performed using both the GlobalFilerTM PCR Amplification Kit and the YFiler plusTM PCR Amplification Kit. The PCR products were analysed using a SeqStudio Genetic Analyser, and the data were interpreted with GeneMapper ID-X software version 1.3.
DNA profiles were successfully obtained from the reference samples (victim and suspect) and from bloodstains on a pair of male pants, and the profiles matched the victim's profile using the GlobalFiler™ kit. The profile from the headscarf yielded a mixed profile which made it difficult to compare the suspect’s profile. Therefore YFiler Plus™ kit was used to profile both the sample from the head scarf and suspect which yielded completely matching profiles.
Trace samples recovered from crime scenes are critical for resolving forensic cases.