THE EFFECTS OF HEAVY METAL CONTAMINATION IN SOIL ON DNA DEGRADATION AFTER DECOMPOSITION

Author

Samantha Hofland, University of Montana, MissoulaFollow

Year of Award

2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

Master of Arts (MA)

Degree Name

Anthropology (Forensic Anthropology Option)

Department or School/College

Anthropology

Committee Chair

Dr. Meradeth Snow

Commitee Members

Dr. Randall Skelton, Dr. Mark Heirigs, Carl Nyman

Keywords

Decomposition, DNA, Contamination, Montana, Soil, Pig

Subject Categories

Biological and Physical Anthropology

Abstract

The application of DNA is an ever-expanding field of research with many implications in the field of forensic investigation. Research into DNA obtained from soil is ongoing and suggests a new avenue in forensic investigation. This research seeks to understand the effects of heavy metal on the preservation of DNA within soil after decomposition of remains. Using pigs as a proxy for human remains, the effects of heavy metal contamination on the microbial environment and endogenous pig DNA was observed. This gave broad insight into the effect of surface burial and Western Montana; summer climate has on DNA degradation.

Recommended Citation

Hofland, Samantha, "THE EFFECTS OF HEAVY METAL CONTAMINATION IN SOIL ON DNA DEGRADATION AFTER DECOMPOSITION" (2021). Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers. 11721.
https://scholarworks.umt.edu/etd/11721