When a person goes missing, families can be left with painful uncertainty. Investigations may rely on records, photographs, fingerprints, dental information and other evidence, but DNA analysis can provide another powerful tool for establishing identity.
Forensic DNA testing can compare biological material associated with a missing person with known samples or DNA provided by biological relatives. At the Lagos State DNA & Forensic Centre (LSDFC), forensic DNA analysis supports human identification and other investigative applications using scientific laboratory methods.
How Is DNA Used to Identify a Missing Person?
DNA contains inherited genetic information that can be used to distinguish individuals and establish biological relationships. According to INTERPOL, DNA analysis can assist with identifying missing persons and victims of disasters in addition to its use in criminal investigations.
Scientists may develop a DNA profile from biological material believed to be associated with a missing individual and compare it with an appropriate reference sample. Depending on the case, reference material may come from:
- A previously collected biological sample
- Personal items believed to have been used by the missing person
- Biological parents
- Children
- Siblings or other appropriate biological relatives
When a direct reference sample is unavailable, DNA from biological relatives can help scientists evaluate whether unidentified DNA is consistent with a proposed family relationship.
How Family Reference DNA Samples Help
A family reference sample is DNA voluntarily provided by a biological relative for comparison with DNA associated with a missing person or unidentified remains.
The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) explains how DNA from biological relatives can assist with missing-person identification. Depending on the family structure, parents, children and siblings may provide useful reference samples.
Collection is often straightforward. A buccal or cheek swab can collect cells from inside the mouth and provide DNA for laboratory analysis without an invasive procedure.
Individuals who require professional DNA sample collection can book an appointment to come to the lab or use LSDFC’s DNA Collection Centers and Partner Pharmacies to find available collection locations.
What If There Is No DNA Sample From the Missing Person?
A missing person may not have a previously collected DNA sample. Investigators may therefore examine personal items that could contain biological material, such as a toothbrush or other items believed to have been used by that individual.
However, finding DNA on an object does not automatically establish who deposited it. The item’s history, possible use by other people, handling, contamination and the quality of the recovered DNA must all be considered.
When a suitable direct sample cannot be obtained, comparing unidentified DNA with samples from biological relatives may provide another route toward identification.
Can DNA Help Identify Human Remains?
Yes. DNA analysis can be particularly valuable when remains cannot be reliably identified through visual examination or conventional records.
Depending on their condition, scientists may attempt to recover DNA from bone, teeth, tissue or other suitable biological material. This can be important when remains are degraded, fragmented, environmentally damaged or recovered long after death.
The resulting DNA profile may then be compared with direct reference samples or DNA from biological relatives. The success of this process depends on factors including the condition of the sample, the amount and quality of DNA recovered and the reference information available.
What Happens During Forensic DNA Analysis?
Although every case is different, forensic DNA analysis generally involves several key stages.
Sample Examination and DNA Extraction
Scientists examine the submitted material and use appropriate laboratory procedures to recover DNA while minimizing the risk of contamination.
DNA Profiling
Selected genetic markers are analyzed to develop a DNA profile that can be used for comparison.
Comparison and Interpretation
The profile may be compared with a direct reference sample, family reference samples or other appropriate DNA evidence. Scientists then evaluate the genetic findings and, where appropriate, use statistical methods to assess the strength of a proposed identity or biological relationship.
You can learn more about LSDFC’s capabilities through its Forensic DNA Analysis service.
Why Chain of Custody Matters
Reliable forensic testing requires more than obtaining a DNA profile. The integrity and documented history of the sample are also important.
Chain of custody in DNA testing records how evidence is collected, transferred, received, stored and handled. This documentation helps protect the integrity of evidence and becomes especially important when DNA findings may be used in a legal or criminal investigation.
DNA Identification During Mass Disasters
DNA analysis can also support disaster victim identification (DVI) when conventional identification is difficult.
INTERPOL’s Disaster Victim Identification guidance describes a multidisciplinary identification process that may use DNA alongside methods such as fingerprints and dental information.
In these circumstances, DNA obtained from remains may be compared with reference samples from biological relatives or suitable personal items as part of the broader identification process.
Can DNA Always Identify a Missing Person?
DNA is a powerful scientific tool, but not every case can be resolved through DNA analysis alone. Successful identification can depend on:
- The availability of suitable biological material
- The quantity and quality of recovered DNA
- Environmental degradation or contamination
- The availability of appropriate reference samples
- The biological relationship of participating family members
DNA findings may also be considered alongside fingerprints, dental records, medical information and other investigative evidence.
Helping Families Find Answers Through Forensic Science
Behind every missing-person DNA profile is a person and a family searching for answers. Scientific identification cannot undo the circumstances surrounding a disappearance, but forensic DNA can provide important information that helps families and investigators move closer to understanding what happened.
Through careful sample collection, scientific analysis and appropriate interpretation, DNA testing continues to play an important role in human identification, missing-person investigations and family reunification.
DNA and Forensic Services at LSDFC
The Lagos State DNA & Forensic Centre (LSDFC) provides DNA and forensic testing services for members of the general public, families, legal professionals, law enforcement agencies, government institutions and other organizations.
If you need guidance about DNA testing, forensic analysis, sample collection or which service may be appropriate for your circumstances, contact LSDFC for assistance.
Need DNA or forensic testing assistance?
Call or WhatsApp: +234 (0) 814 741 1921
Email: info@lsdfc.org
You can also book an appointment or find a convenient DNA Collection Center or Partner Pharmacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is DNA used to identify a missing person?
DNA associated with a missing individual can be compared with a direct reference sample or DNA provided by biological relatives. Scientists examine genetic similarities and may use statistical analysis to evaluate the strength of a proposed identification or biological relationship.
Can family members provide DNA to help identify a missing person?
Yes. Biological relatives can provide family reference samples for DNA comparison. Which relatives are most informative depends on the family structure and circumstances of the case.
Can DNA identify human remains after many years?
In some circumstances, yes. DNA may be recovered from materials such as bone or teeth even after significant time has passed. Success depends on the condition and preservation of the biological material.
Can personal items be used as a DNA reference?
Potentially. Items such as a toothbrush may contain biological material from their user, but the item’s history, handling, possible use by other individuals and potential contamination must be considered before it is used for forensic comparison.
Is DNA alone enough to identify someone?
DNA can provide powerful scientific evidence, but identification may also incorporate fingerprints, dental records, medical information and other investigative or forensic findings depending on the circumstances.