Evaluation of the Impact of Different Visualization Techniques on DNA in Fingerprints

• NCJ Number: 242716
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 63 Issue: 2 Dated: March/April 2013 Pages: 189-204
• Author(s): Stina Norlin; Martina Nilsson; Per Heden; Marie Allen
• Date Published: April 2013
• Length: 16 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined the effect that different fingerprint visualization techniques have on DNA content in fingerprints left on a variety of surface types.

Abstract

More than 200 latent fingerprints were deposited on various surfaces under controlled conditions and then developed using 9 different visualization techniques. DNA was extracted from the fingerprints and the samples were subsequently quantified for nuclear and mitochondrial DNA content, using real-time PCR. The results show that several of the evaluated visualization techniques (e.g., Wet Powder and black fingerprint powder) do not damage DNA and allow DNA analysis to a large extent. However, some of the visualization techniques (e.g., physical developer and silver nitrate) seem to eliminate DNA completely, highly degrade DNA, or introduce inhibitors, preventing subsequent analysis. Furthermore, the results demonstrate great variation in DNA amounts detected in samples developed with the same method. (Published Abstract)