The possibility of analyzing cremated remains for genetic material is a question frequently posed to forensic scientists and genealogists. The process of cremation, involving high temperatures, typically degrades DNA to the point where it is highly fragmented and challenging to recover. Intact DNA is crucial for successful analysis and comparison to other samples.
While cremation is designed to reduce a body to its basic elements, the persistent demand for DNA recovery from ashes stems from various needs. These include confirming identity, resolving inheritance disputes, or aiding in criminal investigations where cremation was used to conceal evidence. Historically, the assumption was that cremation destroyed DNA beyond recovery, making it a final act of obliteration. However, advances in forensic science are prompting re-evaluation of these long-held beliefs.
