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The tragic Wayanad landslides in Kerala have left authorities facing a daunting task: identifying the remains of 52 victims whose bodies have decomposed. To overcome this challenge, the Kerala government is considering utilizing advanced next-generation DNA sequencing (NGS) technology. This cutting-edge technology holds the potential to extract and analyze DNA from severely degraded samples, aiding in the identification process.
The Regional Forensic Lab in Kannur is currently undertaking the identification process, employing a dedicated six-member team. However, the lack of clean DNA, especially from decomposed samples, has posed a significant hurdle. Recognizing the limitations of traditional methods, the government is exploring the use of NGS, which offers a more comprehensive and faster approach to DNA analysis. This method is capable of sequencing DNA fragments simultaneously, providing a complete picture of the human genome.
NGS technology boasts several advantages over traditional short tandem repeat (STR) analysis. It requires a smaller sample input, making it ideal for working with decomposed remains. Additionally, its speed and accuracy are superior, facilitating a more efficient identification process. The government is exploring the availability of NGS facilities at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology in Thiruvananthapuram and the ICMR-National Institute of Virology field unit in Alappuzha.
While the forensic lab team has been diligently working to build DNA profiles from over 442 samples, challenges remain. Although the gender of 248 samples has been determined, only 42 cases have been positively identified through cross-matching with reference samples. The use of bone samples has been instrumental in some of these identifications. The team has also profiled 54 samples from 154 body parts, adding to the complexity of the process.
Moving forward, the focus will shift to cross-matching the DNA profiles of 401 samples with those of 118 missing persons. This process faces its own set of obstacles. While 91 blood samples from relatives are available for comparison, challenges arise in cases where close relatives are deceased and samples from spouses have been collected instead. In such situations, fresh sample collection is necessary for accurate cross-matching.
The Kerala government's proactive approach in exploring advanced DNA technology demonstrates a commitment to providing closure for the families of the victims. However, the complexities of the identification process highlight the need for ongoing collaboration between scientists, forensic experts, and authorities. Utilizing the latest technology and coordinating efforts effectively will be crucial in bringing justice to those who lost loved ones in the Wayanad landslides.
Source: Kerala may use advanced DNA technology to identify Wayanad landslides victims