Positive Post-mortem Identification of Skeletal Remains of a Person Using Radiography and DNA Analysis: A Case Report

Introduction: This study surveys the results obtained from a missing person (for 40 years) from the Iran-Iraq War in Majnoon Island.  Case Report: Skeletal remains were examined by anthropometry. Parts of selected femur and tooth samples were sampled for genetic identification. DNA extraction from bone samples was performed using the QIAamp DNA Blood Mini Kit with a slight change. DNA was extracted using the Qiagen column, washing buffer, and bind-elute technology. Extracted DNA was quantitated by Quantifiler™ Trio DNA Quantification. According to DNA concentration, AmpFℓSTR Miniifiler PCR Amplification or AmpFℓSTR Identifiler PCR Amplification kits were used for genotyping. FTA cards were used to store and extract DNA samples from the person’s family. Genetic profiles were prepared using the AmpFℓSTR Identifiler Direct PCR Amplification Kit. The genetic matching of sex chromosomes was investigated with Yfiler™ PCR Amplification and Investigator Argus X-12 QS kits. Genetic matching and kinship calculations were done using Familias and NoorGIS applications.  Results: The radiographic and genetic examinations ultimately confirmed that the dead body matched the relevant family. Despite the challenges with DNA-degraded samples, a good genetic profile was obtained for genetic identification.  Conclusion: Anthropometric examination, especially post-mortem evidence (e.g. radiography) and genetic examination confirmed that the dead body matched the relevant family.