"Biological identikit": development of a Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms - Panel for the analysis of Forensic DNA Phenotyping and Ancestry to be applied in Disaster Victim Identification

This work is structured into five chapters, each focusing on a key aspect of disaster victim identification. Chapter 1 emphasizes the need for a unified approach to the preservation of DNA extracts, integrating case reviews and recovery efforts in mass disasters. An experimental study testing DNA degradation under various environmental conditions over time is presented. Chapter 2 discusses the significance of a multidisciplinary approach in identifying victims of mass and single graves, based on the Experimental Mass Grave Project (MGP). It highlights the importance of diverse sampling methods and offers guidelines for improving identification strategies. Chapter 3 explores the application of omics disciplines, such as microbiome analysis, to enhance forensic investigations. The aim is to expand beyond traditional forensic genetics (STR) and newer techniques (NGS), improving the understanding of burial dynamics and timing. Chapter 4 reviews forensic databases and their role in identifying unknown individuals, evaluating their advantages and limitations in the context of Disaster Victim Identification (DVI). It provides a global perspective on their application. Finally, Chapter 5 presents the key findings of the doctoral research, including DNA survival in suboptimal conditions, the development of new sampling and preservation techniques, and the integration of traditional and next-generation forensic methods, while suggesting future research directions.