Experts talk about how DNA is used to identify bodies

DETROIT (WXYZ) - Experts have been teaching and studying DNA at Wayne State University for thirty years.

While they can't comment on the possibility the charred remains of a child found the same day little Mariah Smith went missing could belong to her, they believe the mere fact DNA tests are being conducted means some sort of match can be made.

"The tests are routine," says Dr. Lou Romano. "The body would have to be cremated not to be able to get a match."

Romano also says even in a child and even inside the body there are countless numbers of cells that can be tested.

"Tests are most often done with swabs from the mouth or skin cells, but cells in bone marrow can also be used,"he says.

Those cells are usually well preserved no matter what condition the outside of the body is in.

Romano says results use to take about a week but now can be complete in a day or two. If tests take longer to come back it's usually only because the crime lab is backed up.