Degradation of DNA in Whole Blood and Semen by UV Radiation and High Temperature at Varying Time Lengths of Exposure

Abstract

The objective of this investigation was to study the effect of artificial ultraviolet (UV) radiation of varying wavelengths on the degradation of whole human blood DNA and semen over varying time lengths of exposure. DNA degrades rapidly when exposed to environmental factors like high temperature and UV-radiation. The extent of damage done to human DNA in relation to time of exposure to artificial UV and high temperature above 100°C that make blood samples unsuitable for forensic analysis has not yet been determined, and using two methods of extraction the organic and kit methods. The gel electrophoresis was used to appear the bands.