Skeletal Remains Presumed Submerged in Water for Three Years Identified Using PCR-STR Analysis

Abstract
We describe the successful identification of the remains of a saponified body found in a dam by typing of nuclear DNA. Whereas DNA extracted from soft tissues yielded negative PCR results, DNA extracted from the bone by a slightly modified Qiagen procedure allowed the typing of sex (AMG locus) and of 10 additional STR loci. An identity document was found belonging to a man missing for 3 years and comparison of the results to the DNA profiles of his son and wife confirmed the identity. The longest delay reported until now for successful nuclear DNA geno-typing after immersion in river water was 18 months. This case demonstrates a delay of up to 3 years.