THE DNA of a pharmacist accused of murdering his wife was the predominant find on the bag used to suffocate her, a court has heard.

Jessica Patel died at her home in Middlesbrough in May after allegedly being strangled and suffocated.

A jury at Teesside Crown Court heard on Tuesday that a Tesco 'bag for life', which the prosecution alleges Mitesh Patel used to suffocate his wife, was found with damage and holes consistent with someone trying to "rip it" open with their fingers.

Nicola Taylor, a forensic scientist of 18 years, told the court she had carried out DNA profiling on the bag, and she found Mr Patel's DNA as the "predominant contributor" along with "low levels" of Mrs Patel's DNA.

She also said it was a "logical explanation" that the bag had been placed over Mrs Patel's head and tightened.

Scientific tests had also found blood and saliva of Mrs Patel inside the bag.

Ms Taylor also said the DNA of Mr Patel was found on Mrs Patel's right hand finger nail clippings, which she claimed made it "possible" that she attempted to scratch him.

Mr Patel's DNA was also found on the duct tape which was used to tie together Mrs Patel's hands and feet.

Mr Patel alleges he ripped the tape off when he discovered his wife's body and did not apply it himself, but Ms Taylor said it was "inappropriate" to assume anyone else had handled the tape and there was "no clear evidence".

A roll of duct tape seized from the pharmacy which Mr and Mrs Patel ran together was also found to be "similar" to the one used on Mrs Patel and "maybe from the same source".

DNA testing throughout the couple's home, particularly on door handles and a chest of drawers, suggested there was "no meaningful evidence" that anyone else had touched them apart from Mr and Mrs Patel.

Mr Patel denies murder and claims he knew nothing about his wife's death.

The trial continues.