The genetic material of organisms, usually double-stranded; a class of nucleic acids identified by the presence of deoxyribose, a sugar, and the four nucleobases; DNA is present in the nucleus of cells (that have a nucleus), packaged into chromosomes and is inherited from the organism`s biological mother and biological father via the egg and sperm as well as in the mitochondria of cells; DNA is a stable molecule; variations in the DNA sequence between individuals permits DNA testing to distinguish individuals from each other. (OSAC Crime Scene/Death Investigation Committee)

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), often referred to as the “blueprint of life”, it is the genetic material present in the nuclei of cells that is inherited, half from each biological parent. DNA is a chemical substance contained in cells that determine each person’s individual characteristics. An individual’s DNA is unique, except in cases of identical twins. (The Biological Evidence Preservation Handbook, 2013)