How did scientists identify the remains of Nicholas II and his family?
Forensic experts used DNA testing to identify Nicholas II and his family. Tests on mitochondrial DNA, handed down by mothers, showed genetic links between the bodies of four females (Alexandra and three of her daughters) and Prince Philip of the United Kingdom, who is related to Empress Alexandra. Prince Philips maternal grandmother and Empress Alexandra were sisters. Mitochondrial DNA tests also linked the body of an adult male (Nicholas) to the exhumed body of Nicholas’ brother George. Both had a rare mutation that left them with two forms of mitochondrial DNA. Finally, nuclear DNA tests connected two adults (Nicholas and Alexandra) and the three young women (three of their daughters) to each other.
