Using Mitochondrial DNA to Create a Wildlife Genetic Database

Abstract

The “Using Mitochondrial DNA to Create a Wildlife Genetic Database” research project is interdisciplinary between forensic science and wildlife biology. Samples of various animal tissues were taken from the Oklahoma City Zoo in groups of ten based on importance to the Zoo. The samples are stored at the University of Central Oklahoma and individually put through the process of DNA extraction, purification of mitochondrial DNA, and PCR. The samples are then genetically sequenced and a genetic profile created. The goal of the project is to have enough samples from different exotic, endangered, and protected animals to create a DNA database where samples of new genetic profiles or profiles already produced, whether species is known or not, can be submitted and compared to the known genetic profiles. Being able to identify species from a genetic profile would be very useful for criminal cases involving said animals. Having a database with known genetic profiles from many different species could give more certainty to these criminal cases and result in better outcomes.