Quantitation of Human Mitochondrial DNA and Whole Mitochondrial Genomes Sequencing of Fingernail and Hair Shaft Samples

The study investigates the use of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from fingernail and hair shaft samples for forensic analysis, demonstrating the effectiveness of massively parallel sequencing (MPS) in recovering genetic information from degraded samples. Conducted with 44 samples from 4 donors, the research shows that as few as 2,000 mtDNA copies are sufficient for successful sequencing, with quantification possible down to 10 copies. The study highlights the variability of mtDNA within and among samples from the same individual, which can impact forensic investigations. The findings suggest that fingernails and hair shafts can provide valuable genetic information, enhancing forensic methodologies, especially when nuclear DNA is unavailable.