Date of Award
Summer 8-4-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department/Program
Forensic Science
Language
English
First Advisor or Mentor
Mechthild Prinz
Second Reader
Michelle Gordon O’Rourke
Third Advisor
Grace Axler-DiPerte
Abstract
This project investigated the accumulation of DNA on duct tape rolls stored in cars. Specifically, we analyzed samples recovered from three areas (the inside, outside, and flat sides) of unused duct tape stored under the driver's seat and trunk of cars for seven days. Twelve volunteers were recruited, resulting in 64 DNA samples from 12 cars. We evaluated DNA quantities and STR genotyping outcomes after amplification with the GlobalFiler™ kit. On average, the DNA yields from under the driver's seat were higher than from the trunk, but the difference was not significant. The inside of the tape roll yielded significantly less DNA than the other areas. Most samples (89%) had sufficient DNA for GlobalFiler™ amplification (≥ 0.002 ng/µL). The STR genotype profile quality was positively related to the DNA quantities. The majority of samples (71%) generated genotypes suitable for interpretation. The tape roll's insides generated the most "not suitable for comparison" DNA profiles. The tape roll's outsides had a majority of either high partial or full profiles from both car locations. The flat sides of the tape rolls showed predominantly low partial DNA profiles. All single-source and most mixture samples included the reference profiles as a contributor, while 22% of the samples excluded the volunteer as a contributor. The results illustrate the potential for indirect DNA transfer in closed spaces.
Recommended Citation
Chung, Yuching, "Indirect DNA Transfer to Duct Tape Rolls Stored in Cars" (2025). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/jj_etds/362
