To: small_l_libertarian
Interesting comment below about degrading "rapidly". Apparently moisture can cause hair DNA to degrade. Having 12 out of 13 That would argue for a more recent source of the hair rather than one in the prior fall that would be subject to lots of moisture flowing through the drain
Sample Collection of Hair for DNA Analysis
Preparation of Hair Samples for DNA Analysis
DNA is a relatively stable molecule but will degrade over time unless preserved properly. Hair sampling kits are available upon request through the NRDPFC. Sampling kits (NRDPFC-003a) include a paper envelope and insert in which hair samples are protected. It is extremely important to keep hair samples dry upon collection and shipment. DNA within hair can degrade very rapidly if left in harsh condition such as rain or moisture.Link
To: VRWC_minion
Thank you for the link. I wonder how rapidly "very rapidly" is. If it's just a matter of days, I would be willing to believe it, but they DNA matched the Unknown Soldier from Vietnam, and all they had was a small amount of extremely decomposed remains. If I remember correctly, they matched him by using mitDNA, the same sort of testing they used on this hair. Just not sure I'm believing what they're trying to make me believe.
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