Can DNA samples taken 10 years ago be used again today?

Question

The crime is something about sexual intercourse. I just want to know whether DNA samples taken 10 years ago can be used again today to nail the perpetrator.

Answer 1

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if the DNA is stored properly, it can certainly last 10 years. it would need to be in solution with an elution buffer of about pH 8 (water is not best, but can be used for long term storage-but must be stored at -80C) and deeply frozen (at least -20C but -80C is best). it would need to be purified of contaminants before hand, as certain contaminants can affect the integrity of the DNA. DNA can also be stored dry and in that case should also preferably be stored in a freezer, but it is very hard to resuspend for use after it has been dried for a very long time.

Source(s): i work with DNA in a research lab

Answer 2

It depends on what you mean by "taken" 10 years ago. How was it taken, by whom, and how was it stored for a decade? Even if the sample survived for 10 years, you'd still have to demonstrate how the sample was obtained, and then relate that to some crime act by a perpetrator that occurred at some specific time and place.

Unfortunately, the law is full of legal loopholes.

Source(s): self

Answer 3

yes, and it happens all the time that DNA samples from years ago are compared with inmates today. The sample is dried or frozen it can last for many many years.

heating/denaturing of the DNA is not a problem. the problem are enzymes that chew the DNA up.

Answer 4

If it's intact, yes.

DNA denatures at high temps, though. You'd have to be 100% sure that it was kept under the correct conditions.

Answer 5

ha. yes. haven't you seen jurassic park?

:)