Ane Elida Fonneløp

• Hänggi, Nadescha Viviane; Amorim, António; Costa, Heloísa Afonso; Andersen, Jeppe Dyrberg; Kampmann, Marie-Louise & Courts, Cornelius [Vis alle 22 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). mRNA profiling and donor association of mock casework samples: Results of a 3rd and 4th EDNAP collaborative exercise. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 79, s. 1–18. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2025.103303. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Hofsvang, Aurora; Hanssen, Eirik Natås; Muinck, Eric de; Trosvik, Pål & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2025). Forensic geolocation of Norwegian soil samples using random forest analysis of microbiomes. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 82. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2025.103408. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Soil is a substrate easily picked up during everyday activities due to its ubiquity and adhesiveness. A method to determine the origin of soil precisely would therefore be useful in forensic casework as it can provide insight into a person`s or object`s previous whereabouts. To evaluate the potential of microbiomes for soil provenance determination, we collected soil samples from 15 locations in and around Oslo, Norway. Samples were collected multiple times from the same locations to assess changes in the microbiome over time. Additionally, a mock soil stain on clothing sample was collected at each site to validate this sample type. The microbial composition of samples was determined via amplicon sequencing of the V4 region of the 16S rRNA bacterial gene. Our results showed that the microbiomes were significantly impacted by location, with both soil and soil stain samples from the same site mainly exhibiting greater similarity than those from different sites. Notably, seasonal variations affected microbiome composition, leading to significant changes in some locations. Machine learning was employed to associate samples with their geographic origins, achieving classification accuracies above 85 % for both soil stain samples and soil samples collected within one week of each other. However, accuracies were lower for samples collected across different seasons, between 55 % and 64 %, indicating that temporal variation can limit the reliability of soil microbiome analysis when there is a delay between sample collection times.

• Hänggi, Nadescha Viviane; Walliser, Melisa; Fonneløp, Ane Elida; Lagacé, Robert; Hanson, Erin & Ballantyne, Jack [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). Challenges in mRNA-based time since deposition estimation: A multiplex MPS primer panel investigation. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 82. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2025.103415. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Estimating the time since deposition (TsD) of biological stains can provide crucial information for crime scene investigations, but remains a challenging task. In this study, we investigated mRNA degradation patterns across four forensically relevant body fluids - blood, semen, menstrual blood, and vaginal secretion - using a custom-designed mRNA MPS primer panel. The primer panel included candidate mRNA markers identified by RNA-Seq for TsD estimation in multiple body fluids. It was designed to assess mRNA degradation patterns based on three aspects: (1) individual mRNA degradation trends, (2) intra-transcript stability, examining 5′- versus 3’-end degradation, and (3) inter-transcript stability, based on relative degradation between two targets. The results revealed high inter-individual variability, especially for low-abundance transcripts. Some mRNA markers showed degradation patterns that correlated with TsD. However, inconsistencies in the degradation patterns observed across the analyzed time series highlight the challenges associated with primer panel optimization, RNA extraction methods, and reproducibility across samples. Our results suggest that, while mRNA degradation remains a promising strategy for TsD estimation, its forensic application requires careful marker selection and validation across independent data sets, to account for methodological and biological variability.

• Fonneløp, Ane Elida; Hänggi, N.V.; Derevlean, Constantino Cristiano; Bleka, Øyvind & Haas, C. (2025). A CE-based mRNA profiling method including six targets to estimate the time since deposition of blood stains. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 77. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2025.103240. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  An association between RNA degradation and the time since deposition (TsD) of a biological stain has previously been demonstrated. Despite the encouraging results obtained with several RNA markers, the variability in results between individuals and analytical approaches limits the method's application in casework. The incorporation of multiple markers into a single prediction model could enhance estimation accuracy. Typically, real-time qPCR has been the primary analytical platform for these studies. However, qPCR requires high sample volumes and involves numerous pipetting steps when analysing multiple markers, increasing the risk of errors. In this study, we aim to optimize the TsD analysis by combining six targets in three mRNA markers (S100A12, LGALS2 and CLC) in a PCR multiplex and transitioning the analysis platform from qPCR to capillary electrophoresis (CE). This collaborative effort between the Department of Forensic Research at Oslo University Hospital (Laboratory 1) and the Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine (ZIFM, Laboratory 2) analysed a total of six sample sets, spanning a period of 0 days up to 1.5 years (551 days), along with a broad set of test samples including different carrier materials. Furthermore, a machine learning model was employed to predict the age of bloodstains, aiming to enhance the precision and reliability of TsD estimations.

• Gill, Peter; Fonneløp, Ane Elida; Hicks, Tacha; Xenophontos, Stavroulla; Cariolou, Marios & Oorschot, Roland van [Vis alle 55 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). The ReAct project: Analysis of data from 23 different laboratories to characterise DNA recovery given two sets of activity level propositions. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 76. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2025.103222. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  The ReAct (Recovery, Activity) project is an ENFSI (European Network of Forensic Science Institutes) supported initiative comprising a large consortium of laboratories. Here, the results from more than 23 laboratories are presented. The primary purpose was to design experiments simulating typical casework circumstances; collect data and to implement Bayesian networks to assess the value (i.e., likelihood ratio) of DNA results given activity level propositions. Two different experimental designs were used to simulate a robbery, where a screwdriver was used to force a door or window. Propositions and case information were chosen following laboratory feedback listing typical casework circumstances (included in the paper). In a direct transfer experiment, the defendant owned and used the screwdriver, but he did not force the door/window in question. An unknown person used the defendant’s stolen screwdriver. In an indirect transfer experiment, the defendant neither owned, saw, nor used the screwdriver, nor did they force the door or window. For the second experiment, given the defence view, the defendant never held the screwdriver. We envisaged the situation where an object manipulated by the defendant (or the defendant himself/herself) would be touched by the unknown offender who would then force the window. It was found for the direct transfer experiment that unless a single contributor profile aligning with the known person’s of interest profile was retrieved, the results did not allow to discriminate between propositions. On the other hand, for the indirect transfer experiment, both single and major contributor profiles that aligned with the person of interest (POI) supported the proposition that the person used the tool rather than an unknown person who had touched an object, when indeed the former was true. There was considerable variation in median recoveries of DNA between laboratories (between 200pg–5ng) for a given experiment if quantities are taken into account. These differences affect the likelihood ratios given activity level propositions. More than 2700 samples were analysed in the course of this study. Two different Bayesian Networks are made available via an open source application written in Shiny R: Shiny_React(). For comparison, all datasets were analysed using a qualitative method categorised into absent, single, major or other given contributors. The importance of standardising methods is emphasised, alongside the necessity of developing new approaches to assign the probability of laboratory-dependent DNA recovery. Freely accessible open databases play a crucial role in supporting these efforts

• Goray, Mariya; Taylor, Duncan; Bibbo, Emily; Fantinato, Chiara; Fonneløp, Ane Elida & Gill, Peter [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2024). Emerging use of air eDNA and its application to forensic investigations – A review. Electrophoresis. ISSN 0173-0835. 45(9-10), s. 916–932. doi: 10.1002/elps.202300228. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Biological material is routinely collected at crime scenes and from exhibits and is a key type of evidence during criminal investigations. Improvements in DNA technologies allow collection and profiling of trace samples, comprised of few cells, significantly expanding the types of exhibits targeted for DNA analysis to include touched surfaces. However, success rates from trace and touch DNA samples tend to be poorer compared to other biological materials such as blood. Simultaneously, there have been recent advances in the utility of environmental DNA collection (eDNA) in identification and tracking of different biological organisms and species from bacteria to naked mole rats in different environments, including, soil, ice, snow, air and aquatic. This paper examines the emerging methods and research into eDNA collection, with a special emphasis on the potential forensic applications of human DNA collection from air including challenges and further studies required to progress implementation.

• Fantinato, Chiara; Gill, Peter & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2024). Investigative use of human environmental DNA in forensic genetics. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 70, s. 1–12. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2024.103021. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Individuals leave behind traces of their DNA wherever they go. DNA can be transferred to surfaces and items upon touch, can be released into the air, and may be deposited in indoor dust. The mere presence of individuals in a location is sufficient to facilitate either direct or indirect DNA transfer into the surrounding environment. In this study, we analyzed samples recovered from commonly touched surfaces such as light switches and door handles in an office environment. We evaluated two different methods to isolate DNA and co-extract DNA and RNA from the samples. DNA profiles were compared to the references of the inhabitants of the different locations and were analyzed taking into consideration the type of sampled surface, sampling location and information about the activities in a room during the sampling day. Results from DNA samples collected from surfaces were also compared to those from air and dust samples collected in parallel from the same areas. We characterized the amount and composition of DNA found on various surfaces and showed that surface DNA sampling can be used to detect occupants of a location. The results also indicate that combining information from environmental samples collected from different DNA sources can improve our understanding of DNA transfer events in an indoor setting. This study further demonstrates the potential of human environmental DNA as an investigative tool in forensic genetics.

• Agudo, Maria Martin; Fantinato, Chiara; Røseth, Arne; Aanes, Håvard; Gill, Peter & Fonneløp, Ane Elida [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2024). A comparison of likelihood ratios calculated from surface DNA mixtures using MPS and CE Technologies. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 73:103111, s. 1–10. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2024.103111. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  This study evaluates the performance of analysing surface DNA samples using massively parallel sequencing (MPS) compared to traditional capillary electrophoresis (CE). A total of 30 samples were collected from various surfaces in an office environment and were analysed with CE and MPS. These were compared against 60 reference samples (office inhabitants). To identify contributors, likelihood ratios (LRs) were calculated for MPS and CE data using the probabilistic genotyping software MPSproto and EuroForMix respectively. Although a higher number of sequences/peaks were observed per DNA profile in MPS compared to CE, LR values were found to be lower for MPS data formats. This might be the result of the increased complexity of MPS data, along with a possible elevation of unknown alleles and/or artefacts. The study highlights avenues for improving MPS data quality and analysis to facilitate more robust interpretation of challenging casework-like samples.

• Goray, Mariya; Taylor, Duncan; Bibbo, Emily; Patel, Dhruvi; Fantinato, Chiara & Fonneløp, Ane Elida [Vis alle 8 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2024). Up in the air: Presence and collection of DNA from air and air conditioner units. Electrophoresis. ISSN 0173-0835. 45(9-10), s. 933–947. doi: 10.1002/elps.202300227. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Biological material is routinely collected at crime scenes and from exhibits and is a key type of evidence during criminal investigations. Touch or trace DNA samples from surfaces and objects deemed to have been contacted are frequently collected. However, a person of interest may not leave any traces on contacted surfaces, for example, if wearing gloves. A novel means of sampling human DNA from air offers additional avenues for DNA collection. In the present study, we report on the results of a pilot study into the prevalence and persistence of human DNA in the air. The first aspect of the pilot study investigates air conditioner units that circulate air around a room, by sampling units located in four offices and four houses at different time frames post-cleaning. The second aspect investigates the ability to collect human DNA from the air in rooms, with and without people, for different periods of time and with different types of collection filters. Results of this pilot study show that human DNA can be collected on air conditioner unit surfaces and from the air, with air samples representing the more recent occupation while air conditioner units showing historic use of the room.

• Fantinato, Chiara; Fonneløp, Ane Elida; Bleka, Øyvind; Vigeland, Magnus Dehli & Gill, Peter (2023). The invisible witness: air and dust as DNA evidence of human occupancy in indoor premises. Scientific Reports. 13:19059(1), s. 1–16. doi: 10.1038/s41598-023-46151-7. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Abstract Humans constantly shed deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) into the surrounding environment. This DNA may either remain suspended in the air or it settles onto surfaces as indoor dust. In this study, we explored the potential use of human DNA recovered from air and dust to investigate crimes where there are no visible traces available—for example, from a recently vacated drugs factory where multiple workers had been present. Samples were collected from three indoor locations (offices, meeting rooms and laboratories) characterized by different occupancy types and cleaning regimes. The resultant DNA profiles were compared with the reference profiles of 55 occupants of the premises. Our findings showed that indoor dust samples are rich sources of DNA and provide an historical record of occupants within the specific locality of collection. Detectable levels of DNA were also observed in air and dust samples from ultra-clean forensic laboratories which can potentially contaminate casework samples. We provide a Bayesian statistical model to estimate the minimum number of dust samples needed to detect all inhabitants of a location. The results of this study suggest that air and dust could become novel sources of DNA evidence to identify current and past occupants of a crime scene.

• Hänggi, Nadescha Viviane; Bleka, Øyvind; Haas, Cordula & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2023). Quantitative PCR analysis of bloodstains of different ages. Forensic Science International. ISSN 0379-0738. 350(111785), s. 1–9. doi: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111785. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  An accurate method to estimate the age of a stain or the time since deposition (TsD) would represent an important tool in police investigations for evaluating the true relevance of a stain. In this study, two laboratories reproduced an mRNA-based method for TsD estimation published by another group. The qPCR-based assay includes four transcripts (B2M, LGALS2, CLC, and S100A12) and showed preferential degradation of the 5′ end over the 3′ end. In this study, the blood-specific marker ALAS2 was added to examine whether it would show the same degradation pattern. Based on our qPCR data several elastic net models with different penalty combinations were created, using training data from the two laboratories separately and combined. Each model was then used to estimate the age of bloodstains from two independent test sets each laboratory had prepared. The elastic net model built on both datasets with training samples up to 320 days old displayed the best prediction performance across all test samples (MAD=18.9 days). There was a substantial difference in the prediction performance for the two laboratories: Restricting TsD to up to 100 days for test data, one laboratory obtained an MAD of 2.0 days when trained on its own data, whereas the other laboratory obtained an MAD of 15 days.

• Johannessen, Helen Maria; Hanson, Erin; Gill, Peter; Haas, Cordula; Bergseth, Erik & Ballantyne, Jack [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2023). Body Fluid Identification in Samples Collected after Intimate and Social Contact: A Comparison of Two mRNA Profiling Methods and the Additional Information Gained by cSNP Genotypes. Genes. 14:636(3), s. 1–14. doi: 10.3390/genes14030636. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Fantinato, Chiara; Gill, Peter & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2022). Detection of human DNA in the air. Forensic Science International: Genetics Supplement Series. ISSN 1875-1768. 8, s. 282–284. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigss.2022.10.063. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Large quantities of human cells and DNA fragments are continually released into the air and this constitutes a significant proportion of indoor dust. This study explored the feasibility of aerosol DNA as a source of information to aid human identification in criminal cases. Air samples were collected using the AirPrep™ ACD220 electret filter air sampler from indoor environments. Dust samples were collected in parallel from surfaces in the same areas. A new method to extract human DNA from the air filters was developed. DNA profiles were evaluated in relation to the use and time of occupancy of the room from where samples were collected. This study showed that human DNA can be collected from air in sufficient amounts to yield full STR genotypes, suggesting the potential use of aerosol DNA as a novel investigative tool for forensic applications.

• Fantinato, Chiara; Gill, Peter & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2022). Non-self DNA on the neck: a 24 hours time-course study. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 57:102661, s. 1–10. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2022.102661. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Non-self DNA is normally present on skin due to DNA transfer occurring during daily activities. The understanding of persistence and accumulation of foreign DNA on the neck can assist in the interpretation of DNA evidence collected from an assaulted victim. Establishing the composition and level of non-self DNA present is relevant, especially in cases where the victim cohabits with other individuals, such as partner and children. This study investigated the persistence and accumulation of non-self DNA on the neck, over the course of 24 h. DNA samples were collected from the neck of 20 adult volunteers at three time-points, on two days. The detection of a partner's DNA and DNA from unknown sources was studied in relation to the living arrangement and to the activities performed by each individual. An increased number of non-self alleles were detected over time. Partner's DNA was observed to accumulate during the day and to persist when an individual was absent from the shared home environment. DNA from unknown contributors was found on the neck of individuals that used public transport, attended public spaces and had social interactions. The data acquired from this study will help to increase knowledge on the composition of DNA present on an individual's neck in a daily situation.

• Johannessen, Helen Maria; Gill, Peter; Shanthan, Gnanagowry & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2022). Transfer, persistence and recovery of DNA and mRNA vaginal mucosa markers after intimate and social contact with Bayesian network analysis for activity level reporting. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 60:102750, s. 1–17. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2022.102750. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  In sexual assault cases, it can be challenging to identify the type of body fluids/ cell types present in a crime scene sample, especially the origin of epithelial cells. Therefore, more labs are applying mRNA body fluid analysis for saliva, skin and vaginal mucosa markers. To address activity level propositions, it is necessary to assign probabilities of transfer, persistence, prevalence and recovery of DNA and mRNA markers. In this study we analysed 158 samples (fingernail swabs, penile swabs and boxershorts) from 12 couples collected at different time points post intimate contact and after non-intimate contact in order to detect DNA from the person of interest (POI) and mRNA vaginal mucosa markers. Samples were DNA and RNA co-extracted and analysed with PowerPlex®Fusion 6C System and 19-plex mRNA primer mix respectively, using Endpoint PCR and the CE platform. Vaginal mucosa was detected up to 36 h post intimate contact, but also detected in one non-intimate contact sample. In 94% of intimate contact and 50 % of non-intimate contact samples the DNA results support the proposition that POI is the donor (LR ≥ 10,000). There was a strong association between the detection of vaginal mucosa and the average RFU value of the POI. The data were used to instantiate a comprehensive Bayesian network to evaluate the evidence at activity level, given alternate propositions conditioned upon indirect or direct transfer events. It is shown that the value of the evidence is mainly affected by the high DNA quantity (measured as mean RFU) that is recovered from the POI. The detection of vaginal mucosa had low impact upon the resultant likelihood ratio.

• Gill, Peter; Bleka, Øyvind & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2022). Limitations of qPCR to estimate DNA quantity: An RFU method to facilitate inter-laboratory comparisons for activity level, and general applicability. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 61:102777, s. 1–7. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2022.102777. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  The application of qPCR to estimate the quantity of DNA present is usually based upon a short amplicon (typically c.80bp) and a longer amplicon (typically c.200–300bp) where the latter is used to determine the amount of degradation present in a sample. The data are used to make decisions about a) whether there is sufficient template to amplify? b) how much of the elution volume to forward to PCR? A typical multiplex amplifies template in the region of 100–500bp. Consequently, the results from an 80bp amplicon will tend to overestimate the actual amplifiable quantity that is present in a degraded sample. To compensate, a method is presented that relates the quantity of amplifiable DNA to the average RFU of the amplified fragments. This provides greatly improved accuracy of the estimated quantity of DNA present, which may differ by more than an order of magnitude compared to qPCR. The relative DNA quantities can be apportioned per contributor once mixture proportions are ascertained with probabilistic genotyping software (EuroForMix). The motivation for this work was to provide an improved method to generate data to prepare distributions that are used to inform activity level propositions. However, other applications will benefit, particularly those where extraction and quantification are bypassed: For example direct PCR and Rapid DNA technology. The overall aim of this work was to provide a method of quantification that is standardised and can be used to compare results between different laboratories that use different multiplexes. A software solution ”ShinyRFU” is provided to aid calculations.

• Wang, Shouyu; Shanthan, Gnanagowry; Bouzga, Mariam; Dinh, Huyen Mong Thi; Haas, Cordula & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2021). Evaluating the performance of five up-to-date DNA/RNA co-extraction methods for forensic application. Forensic Science International. ISSN 0379-0738. 328(110996), s. 1–8. doi: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.110996. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Gill, Peter; Bleka, Øyvind; Roseth, Arne & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2021). An LR framework incorporating sensitivity analysis to model multiple direct and secondary transfer events on skin surface. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 53:102509, s. 1–15. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2021.102509. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Bayesian logistic regression is used to model the probability of DNA recovery following direct and secondary transfer and persistence over a 24 h period between deposition and sample collection. Sub-source level likelihood ratios provided the raw data for activity-level analysis. Probabilities of secondary transfer are typically low, and there are challenges with small data-sets with low numbers of positive observations. However, the persistence of DNA over time can be modelled by a single logistic regression for both direct and secondary transfer, except that the time since deposition must be compensated by an offset value for the latter. This simplifies the analysis. Probabilities are used to inform an activity-level Bayesian Network that takes account of alternative propositions e.g. time of assault and time of social activities. The model is extended in order to take account of multiple contacts between person of interest and ’victim’. Variables taken into account include probabilities of direct and secondary transfer, along with background DNA from unknown individuals. The logistic regression analysis is Bayesian — for each analysis, 4000 separate simulations were carried out. Quantile assignments enable calculation of a plausible range of probabilities and sensitivity analysis is used to describe the corresponding variation of s that occur when modelled by the Bayesian network. It is noted that there is need for consistent experimental design, and analysis, to facilitate inter-laboratory comparisons. Appropriate recommendations are made. The open-source program written in R-code ALTRaP (Activity Level, Transfer, Recovery and Persistence) enables analysis of complex multiple transfer propositions that are commonplace in cases-work e.g. between those who cohabit. A number of case examples are provided. ALTRaP can be used to replicate the results and can easily be modified to incorporate different sets of data and variables.

• Fonneløp, Ane Elida; Faria, Sara; Shanthan, Gnanagowry & Gill, Peter (2021). Who Packed the Drugs? Application of Bayesian Networks to Address Questions of DNA Transfer, Persistence, and Recovery from Plastic Bags and Tape. Genes. 13:18(1), s. 1–19. doi: 10.3390/genes13010018. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  When DNA from a suspect is detected in a sample collected at a crime scene, there can be alternative explanations about the activity that may have led to the transfer, persistence and recovery of his/her DNA. Previous studies have shown that DNA can be indirectly transferred via intermediate surfaces and that DNA on a previously used object can persist after subsequent use of another individual. In addition, it has been shown that a person’s shedder status may influence transfer, persistence, prevalence, and recovery of DNA. In this study we have investigated transfer persistence and recovery on zip-lock bags and tape, which are commonly encountered in drug cases and how the shedder status of the participants influenced the results. A probabilistic framework was developed which was based on a previously described Bayesian network with case-specific modifications. Continuous modelling of data was used to inform the Bayesian networks and two case scenarios were investigated. In the specific scenarios only moderate to low support for Hp was obtained. Applying a continuous model based on the profile quality can change the LRs.

• Johannessen, Helen Maria; Gill, Peter; Roseth, Arne & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2021). Determination of shedder status: A comparison of two methods involving cell counting in fingerprints and the DNA analysis of handheld tubes. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 53:102541, s. 1–10. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2021.102541. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  The shedder status of an individual may be important to consider in the context of DNA transfer, persistence and recovery and in Bayesian networks where a person’s shedder status may have an impact on the outcome. In this study we compared two methods to determine shedder status: the handheld tube (HH) method and a fluorescent cell count (CC) method. A poor association was observed between the numbers of detected cells in a fingerprint using the CC method and the strength of the DNA result with the HH method. The 20 participants were classified into low (25%), medium (50%) and high (25%) shedders based on the HH method. While the low and high shedders showed a good consistency between the replicates, the medium shedders varied more and have to be considered more carefully as they may act as either a high or a low shedder in an event of DNA transfer.

• Gill, Peter; Bleka, Øyvind & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2021). RFU derived LRs for activity level assignments using Bayesian Networks. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 56:102608, s. 1–5. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2021.102608. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  A comparative study has been carried out, comparing two different methods to estimate activity level likelihood ratios (𝐿𝑅𝑎) using Bayesian Networks. The first method uses the sub-source likelihood ratio (𝑙𝑜𝑔10𝐿𝑅𝜙) as a ‘quality indicator’. However, this has been criticised as introducing potential bias from population differences in allelic proportions. An alternative method has been introduced that is based upon the total 𝑅𝐹𝑈 of a DNA profile that is adjusted using the mixture proportion (𝑀𝑥) which is calculated from quantitative probabilistic genotyping software (EuroForMix). Bayesian logistic regressions of direct transfer data showed that the two methods were comparable. Differences were attributed to sampling error, and small sample sizes of secondary transfer data. The Bayesian approach facilitates comparative studies by taking account of sampling error; it can easily be extended to compare different methods.

• Bouzga, Mariam; Dørum, Guro; Gundersen, Karsten; Kohler, Priscila; Hoff-Olsen, Per & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2020). Is it possible to predict the origin of epithelial cells? – A comparison of secondary transfer of skin epithelial cells versus vaginal mucous membrane cells by direct contact. Science & justice. ISSN 1355-0306. 60(3), s. 234–242. doi: 10.1016/j.scijus.2020.02.003. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  In alleged sexual assault and rape cases, the focus has often been to collect samples from the victim's body, for detection of body fluids or skin cells from the offender. But in many cases intimate body samples from the perpetrator(s) can also be informative. However, in cases where the female victim claims vaginal penetration, the defendant may display an alternative explanation to the DNA findings, i.e. that the victim’s skin cells has been secondarily transferred to his penis. We hypothesized that female DNA will be detected in a significantly greater amount on swabs from penis after intercourse than after secondary transfer by skin contact. Fourteen male-female couples were recruited to test the above hypothesis, by collecting penile swabs from 3 specified anatomical locations: Glans, shaft, and the coronal sulcus, after two different situations: Vaginal intercourse and secondary transfer of epithelial cells by skin contact. The results show that penile swabs following intercourse produce significantly higher DNA concentrations than after secondary transfer by skin contact. Our results, indicates which of the anatomical regions is best suited for sampling. The DNA profiling results show a preponderance of female profiles over male profiles following intercourse compared to secondary skin contact. Based on these data, it is possible to make a statistical model to distinguish between samples taken after intercourse and samples taken after secondary transfer by skin contact based on the amount of female DNA and mixture proportion (Mx) between female and male DNA in samples collected from penis swabs.

• Fonneløp, Ane Elida; Johannessen, Helen; Heen, Guro; Molland, Karen Helene & Gill, Peter (2019). A retrospective study on the transfer, persistence and recovery of sperm and epithelial cells in samples collected in sexual assault casework. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 43:102153, s. 1–6. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.102153. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Data from all sexual assault cases analysed at the Section of Forensic Biology at Oslo University Hospital in the period 2013–2015 were reviewed to study transfer and persistence of cells deposited on the body. Data were recorded on detection of both sperm and epithelial cells. The final dataset consist of 2141 samples from 765 cases. In this study “positive findings” refer to evidence to support the proposition that the DNA profile was contributed by the POI and do not only correspond to detection of cell type, e.g. sperm cells. Positive findings from analysis of sperm cells could be detected in samples collected up to 72 h after deposition, and was less frequently detected in oral swabs were the longest observed persistence time was 12 h. Positive findings from analysis of epithelial cells were observed up to 43 h after deposition. A high success rate was observed from penile swabs collected within 24 h of the incidence demonstrating the importance of collecting and analysing such samples in cases where no semen is detected.

• Bleka, Øyvind; Bouzga, Mariam; Fonneløp, Ane Elida & Gill, Peter (2017). dnamatch2: An open source software to carry out large scale database searches of mixtures using qualitative and quantitative models. Forensic Science International: Genetics Supplement Series. ISSN 1875-1768. 6, s. e404–e406. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigss.2017.09.160. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Fonneløp, Ane Elida; Ramse, Merete; Egeland, Thore & Gill, Peter (2017). The implications of shedder status and background DNA on direct and secondary transfer in an attack scenario. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 29, s. 48–60. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2017.03.019. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Fonneløp, Ane Elida; Johannessen, Helen; Egeland, Thore & Gill, Peter (2016). Contamination during criminal investigation: Detecting police contamination and secondary DNA transfer from evidence bags. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 23, s. 121–129. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2016.04.003. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  As the profiling systems used in forensic analyses have become more sensitive in recent years, the risk of detecting a contamination in a DNA sample has increased proportionally. This requires more stringent work protocols and awareness to minimize the chance of contamination. Although there is high consciousness on contamination and best practice procedures in forensic labs, the same requirements are not always applied by the police. In this study we have investigated the risk of contamination from police staff. Environmental DNA was monitored by performing wipe tests (sampling of hot spots) at two large police units (scenes of crime departments). Additionally, the DNA profiles of the scenes of crime officers were compared to casework samples that their own unit had investigated in the period of 2009–2015. Furthermore, a pilot study to assess whether DNA from the outside package of an exhibit could be transferred to a DNA sample was carried out. Environmental DNA was detected in various samples from hot spots. Furthermore, 16 incidences of previously undetected police-staff contamination were found in casework that had been submitted between 2009 and 2015. In 6 cases the police officers with a matching DNA profile reported that they had not been involved with the case. We have demonstrated that DNA from the outside package can be transferred to an exhibit during examination. This experience demonstrates that when implementing the new multiplex systems, it is important to ensure that ‘best practice’ procedures are upgraded, and appropriate training is provided in order to ensure that police are aware of the increased contamination risks.

• Fonneløp, Ane Elida; Egeland, Thore & Gill, Peter (2015). Secondary and subsequent DNA transfer during criminal investigation. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 17, s. 155–162. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2015.05.009. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Fonneløp, Ane Elida; Johannessen, Helen & Gill, Peter (2015). Persistence and secondary transfer of DNA from previous users of equipment. Forensic Science International: Genetics Supplement Series. ISSN 1875-1768. 5, s. 191–192. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigss.2015.09.077. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  A study of persistence of DNA from previous users’ computer equipment and secondary transfer to a new user’s hand was conducted. Four individuals (two male and two female) swapped their personal computer keyboard and mouse. Samples were collected from parts of the equipment (background DNA), and from the new users’ hands on the first day and then frequently until the previous users’ DNA could not be detected. Additional Y-analysis was performed on the samples collected from the female participants’ hands. In the samples collected from the new users’ hands on the first day of the swap, alleles identical to those of the previous user were observed in mixtures in all cases except the samples collected from the good shedder’s hands. This study shows that it is possible to transfer an initial user’s DNA from the computer equipment to the hands of a new user up to eight days after receiving the equipment.

• Kaur, Navreet; Fonneløp, Ane Elida & Egeland, Thore (2014). Regression models for DNA-mixtures. Forensic Science International: Genetics. ISSN 1872-4973. 11, s. 105–110. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2014.03.002. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Egeland, Thore; Fonneløp, Ane Elida; Berg, Paul Ragnar; Kent, Matthew Peter & Lien, Sigbjørn (2012). Complex mixtures: A critical examination of a paper by Homer et al. Forensic Science International. ISSN 0379-0738. 6(1), s. 64–69. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2011.02.003. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv

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• Bouzg, M.M.; Dørum, Guro; Gundersen, Kristian; Kohler, Priscila; Hoff-Olsena, P. & Fonneløp, Ane Elida (2021). Erratum to “Is it possible to predict the origin of epithelial cells? – A comparison of secondary transfer of skin epithelial cells versus vaginal mucous membrane cells by direct contact” [Sci. Justice 60 (3) (2020) 234–242] (Science & Justice (2020) 60(3) (234–242), (S1355030619302175), (10.1016/j.scijus.2020.02.003)). Science & justice. ISSN 1355-0306. 61(1), s. 108–108. doi: 10.1016/j.scijus.2020.10.001. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Pedersen, Julie Petrine Stavdal; Fonneløp, Ane Elida & Egeland, Thore (2023). Analyse av mRNA i rettsgenetisk sammenheng. Norges miljø- og biovitenskapelige universitet (NMBU). Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Helt siden 1980-tallet, har DNA fra biologisk åstedsmateriale blitt brukt til å identifisere berørte i ulike straffesaker (1). Alle individer har et unikt genmateriale og dermed også en unik DNA-profil. Dette kan utnyttes hvis man ønsker å knytte biologiske spor til en donor slik at en person kan bli rettmessig frifunnet eller for å bringe frem nyttig informasjon til etterforskningen og eventuelt styrke mistanken mot en mistenkt. Kunnskap om ulike celletyper på et åsted, kan også gi vesentlig informasjon om handlingsforløpet til en kriminalsak. Eksempelvis kan kunnskapen om tilstedeværelsen av vaginalt sekret eller sædvæske bidra til å fremme viktige opplysninger innen ulike voldtektssaker (2). Hos rettsmedisinske laboratorier, er det vanlig å utføre forundersøkelser som gir en indikasjon på om en spesifikk celletype/kroppsvæske er til stede eller ikke. Disse testene er vanligvis basert på kjemisk eller enzymatisk fargeendringer, men er dessverre ikke humanspesifikke og kan være vanskelige å tolke ved små mengder cellemateriale. Derfor må vi forvente at tester som inkluderer fargeendring vil være beheftet med en viss usikkerhet (3). RNA, ribonukleinsyre, er et molekyl som blant annet er involvert i overføringen av genetisk informasjon fra DNA til proteinsyntese. RNA inneholder derfor viktig informasjon om genuttrykket til ulike celler. Ved å se på gener som er utelukkende utrykt hos spesifikke celler, kan man bruke genene til å identifisere ulike celletyper (4). I løpet av de siste årene har nye celleidentifikasjonsmetoder blitt introdusert hos rettsmedisinske laboratorier. En av disse metodene inkluderer vevsspesifikke RNA-markører som kan brukes til å lage RNA-profiler. Ved å se på unike kombinasjoner av RNA-markører til en RNA-profil, kan man identifisere flere humanspesifikke celletyper slik som blod, spytt, sæd, vaginalsekret, menstruasjon og hud (5). Til tross for at en RNA-profil kan bidra til verdifull tilleggsinformasjon om en straffesak, er metoden enda ikke inkorporert i rettsgenetisk saksbehandling. En av årsakene til dette er at RNA-profiler har flere elementer som må tolkes på en annen måte enn hos DNA profiler (5). I tillegg finnes det enkelte markører som er mindre spesifikke som har vist seg å kryssreagere med andre celletyper. RNA-markøren MUC4, en humanspesifikk markør som koder for mucin-4, er for eksempel utelukkende utrykt i vaginalsekret, men har vist seg å bli detektert i både spytt og nesesekret (6). I denne studien skal vi finne ut om vi kan bruke RNA-profiler til å lage en statistisk modell for celletypebestemmelse. Spesielt da med hensyn på prediksjon av ulike humanspesifikke celletyper i rettsgenetisk sammenheng. Analysen er basert på eksisterende data som er hentet fra avdeling for rettsmedisinske fag hos Oslo universitetssykehus (RESP-OUS). Vi kommer til å gå innom hvilke utfordringer vi kan støte på ved på ved predikering ved hjelp av RNA. For eksempel, kan uspesifikke markører slik som MUC4 bidra til dårlige prediksjon.

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