Application of entomology and DNA analysis in forensic identification

Criminal identification using genetic material began in 1985. Techniques such as amplification, isolation, and characterization of genetic material taken from the digestive system of necrophagous and hematophagous arthropods can aid in the identification of victims and suspects. The objective of this study was to describe the contributions of entomology and genetics to the analysis and identification of human remains of forensic interest. Currently, the most relevant markers are VNTR, STR, and mitochondrial DNA. The arthropods that most assist in the development of forensic entomology are insects of the orders Diptera and Coleoptera. The combination of DNA-based techniques with entomology can provide strategies for obtaining DNA profiles that can be applied to human identification for a wide variety of forensic purposes.