Identifying the Missing Romanov Children with DNA
Author Information
Author(s): Michael D. Coble, Odile M. Loreille, Mark J. Wadhams, Suni M. Edson, Kerry Maynard, Carna E. Meyer, Harald Niederstätter, Cordula Berger, Burkhard Berger, Anthony B. Falsetti, Peter Gill, Walther Parson, Louis N. Finelli
Primary Institution: Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
Hypothesis
Can DNA analysis confirm the identities of the two missing Romanov children?
Conclusion
DNA testing provides strong evidence that the remains found in 2007 belong to the missing Romanov children, Alexei and one of his sisters.
Supporting Evidence
- The remains were found in a second grave near the first mass grave.
- DNA analysis confirmed the remains belonged to the children of Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra.
- The study used multiple independent laboratories to verify results.
- DNA profiles matched those of living relatives of the Romanov family.
- Evidence suggests the remains are over 60 years old.
- Two individuals were identified from the remains, one male and one female.
Takeaway
Scientists used DNA from bones to find out who the missing Romanov children were, and they found out it was Alexei and one of his sisters.
Methodology
Forensic DNA testing using mitochondrial DNA, autosomal STR, and Y-STR testing.
Limitations
The study could not conclusively identify which sister was missing due to lack of DNA reference from both.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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