Year of Award

2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

Master of Arts (MA)

Degree Name

Anthropology (Forensic and Biological Anthropology)

Department or School/College

Anthropology

Committee Chair

Dr. Meradeth Snow

Commitee Members

Dr. Xenia Kyriakou, Dr. Mark Heirigs, Kristine Pilgrim

Keywords

chemical degradation, effects of acid on DNA, human teeth chemical degradation

Subject Categories

Biological and Physical Anthropology | Forensic Chemistry | Genetics

Abstract

Identity is a human right, and forensic anthropological methods are often aimed at returning identity to decedents. Three main pathways are used for the identification of human remains: fingerprints, dental records, and DNA analysis. Identification efforts may be hindered when perpetrators attempt to obscure the victim’s identity. In cases where corrosive substances, such as hydrochloric acid (HCl) are used, dental comparison and fingerprinting often fail and genetic analysis becomes the best chance of achieving personal identification.

Previous studies have shown teeth are an excellent source of DNA. Large, multi-rooted teeth, such as molars, are often preferred because they contain the highest concentration of DNA, compared to other tooth types in addition to being more likely to survive taphonomic processes. This research project seeks to quantitate DNA in teeth subjected to chemical alteration by HCl in a minimally destructive manner.

Prior studies aimed at extracting DNA from teeth pulverized the entire tooth as part of the DNA extraction process. By destroying the tooth in the DNA extraction process, we lose the chance to collect more data and hamper future identification efforts, or return those remains to the family. These studies also collected very little preliminary data regarding the tooth size and shape, instead focusing only on retrieving DNA. Morphological changes will also be assessed pre- and post-acid submersion using various techniques, including 3D scanning, photography, and caliper measurements, with the goal of identifying any degradation trends.

This study also seeks to quantify DNA available after extended exposure to HCl using qPCR by utilizing the Investigator Quantiplex Pro Kit from Qiagen. The qPCR will determine the concentration of human DNA, the degradation rate, and presence of male DNA. Both the genetic and morphological data will contribute to the growing body of forensic research on altered human remains. This study aims to shed new light on how HCl affects teeth morphology and DNA degradation over time in a less destructive manner than previous studies. The hope is that by using minimally destructive methods on remains for identification, more complete remains can be returned to the family of the decedent.

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© Copyright 2026 Shaelyn Lee Zimmerman