Assessing DNA Concentration and Purity on Dental Floss: Implications for Forensic DNA Profiling

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Ahmad Yudianto
Beta Novia Rizky
Arofi Kurniawan
Mieke Sylvia Margaretha Amiatun Ruth
An’nisaa Chusida
Anand Marya
Abdul Hadi Furqoni
Ni Luh Ayu Megasari

Abstract

Introduction: Deoxyribonucleotide (DNA) analysis is widely recognized as the gold standard method for forensic examination. Retrieval of DNA from diverse primary and secondary sources, such as garments and dental hygiene tools, is considered an essential step in DNA analysis, especially when followed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification that might provide valuable forensic information. This study aimed to assess the concentration and purity of DNA obtained from dental floss, specifically for forensic identification. Materials and methods: Seven participants were enrolled in this study and were instructed to floss their teeth four times after meals. Dental flosses were then sealed in envelopes and stored in a controlled environment at 0 day (group A), three days (group B), and seven days (group C), followed by DNA extraction and PCR amplification of FGA locus to evaluate the concentration and purity of the DNA samples. Results: Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in DNA purity among groups (p>0.05). However, DNA concentration was considerably varied (p<0.05). Amplification of the FGA locus successfully produced distinct and visible bands during electrophoresis. Conclusion: This study has shown that the quality and quantity of DNA found on dental floss after various days of exposure to saliva via flossing are significant to generate positive PCR amplification. Recovery of DNA followed by PCR amplification of the FGA locus can be performed using DNA floss samples stored for up to seven days, suggesting that dental floss can be a valuable tool for collecting biological material and providing DNA evidence in forensic investigations. 

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How to Cite
Yudianto, A., Rizky, B. N., Kurniawan, A., Amiatun Ruth, M. S. M., Chusida, A., Marya, A., Furqoni, A. H., & Megasari, N. L. A. (2025). Assessing DNA Concentration and Purity on Dental Floss: Implications for Forensic DNA Profiling. Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 21(3), 346–351. https://doi.org/10.47836/mjmhs.21.3.40
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Original Articles

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