Sorenson Genomics played a significant role in
the DNA testing and victim identification for the December 26, 2004
Tsunami disaster in Thailand. With the help of David Rockwood,
president of Park-City based Pacific Rim Consulting,
Sorenson Genomics was allowed to assist the Thai government, specifically the
Central Institute of Forensic Sciences, in the DNA identification of several
hundred Tsunami victims.
To date, approximately 800 victim specimens have been submitted
to the laboratory for testing and analysis. Testing has largely involved the
extraction, amplification and DNA sequencing of a portion of the mitochondrial
(mtDNA) genome. The mtDNA is a genetic entity that is known to be inherited
from a mother to all of her children. Thus, the mtDNA can be used as a reliable
marker for a particular maternal lineage. The mtDNA is also more robust and
stable in compromised samples sources. As a result, the mtDNA was used due to
the heavy degree of degradation to the specimens that were received from Thailand
in part because of the severe decomposition of each corpse but also because of
the transportation distance between
Thailand and the United States.
Immediately after the Tsunami and under the direction of
Dr. Rojanasunan Pornthip, teams were assembled to deal with the enormous number
of corpses that needed to be processed in a short period of time. Surgical
equipment was scarce and facilities in which to process the bodies were less
than favorable. Many of the teams worked in temperatures exceeding 95°F and 100%
humidity and much of the victim identification was done in the crudest of
circumstances. Thankfully, the victim identification teams persisted with the
goal to repatriate as many victims back to their homelands and or families for
proper burial.
One of the biggest observations made during this time of tragedy
was the lack of appropriate testing or sampling equipment and supplies.
Specifically, the victim identification teams needed a DNA identification kit that
would conform to international standards and requirements but would also provide
the necessary tools to extract and collect specimens that would be viable for
DNA analysis.
Sorenson Genomics, based on the wealth of experience that was
gained by the Thai victim identification team, has developed a DNA specimen
collection kit. The kit is designed by those who have literally performed
thousands of autopsy-like victim identifications. The Sorenson Genomics Mass
Disaster Victim Identification Kit is designed according to the highest standards
and is meant to comply with international protocols.
"We do not wish to experience another mass disaster in the world,
but should one occur, we have designed a tool that can be an integral part of the
identification of victims and can be a means of assisting families to identify their
loved ones". -- Lars Mouritsen, Chief Scientific Officer, Sorenson Genomics.
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