Researchers at Nucleix, an Israeli company specializing in DNA analysis, have developed a method to combat the practice of forging DNA.

In an article recently published in the scientific journal “Forensic Science International: Genetics,” the researchers show that it is relatively easy to obtain artificial DNA and incorporate it into human saliva or blood. This false evidence can be planted at a crime scene. Nucleix has developed a DNA authentication method that distinguishes between real and fake samples.

Widely used and valued for its accuracy, forensic DNA profiling is routinely used at crime scenes, and is often a decisive factor in the acquittal or conviction of suspects in rape and murder cases.

The new process was tested on natural and artificial samples of blood, saliva and touched surfaces, with complete success, Nucleix says.