Human teeth are a valuable source of preserved DNA and are widely used in forensic and archaeological research. However, many commonly used DNA extraction methods involve destructive processing that can damage or destroy samples, limiting future identification or preservation efforts. This study investigates how different laboratory DNA extraction approaches influence both DNA recovery and the structural integrity of human teeth.
A total of 250 de-identified human teeth extracted from routine dental extraction in the 1980s and retained by a dental school archive will be analysed. Teeth will be subjected to a range of solution-based soaking treatments using commonly applied DNA extraction reagents, as well as a traditional destructive grinding method used as a comparative control. DNA yield will be quantified and fragment size distribution assessed to evaluate both the amount and quality of recovered DNA. In parallel, micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) imaging will be used to examine any structural changes in the teeth resulting from each treatment.
The study aims to: (1) compare the effects of different extraction solutions and soaking conditions on total DNA yield; (2) assess how these treatments influence DNA fragment size distribution; and (3) evaluate their impact on dental structural integrity. By combining molecular analysis with high-resolution imaging, the research will provide a comprehensive assessment of how extraction protocols affect both DNA recovery and sample preservation.
The findings will contribute to the development of improved methodological standards in forensic and archaeological science. Identifying extraction methods that maximise DNA recovery while preserving tooth structure could reduce unnecessary destructive processing of valuable or limited dental specimens.