Isolation of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) From Saliva and Forensic Science Samples Containing Saliva

• NCJ Number: 136010
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 37 Issue: 2 Dated: (March 1992) Pages: 387-395
• Author(s): D J Walsh; A C Corey; R W Cotton; L Forman; G L Herrin Jr; C J Word; D D Garner
• Date Published: 1992
• Length: 9 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Test/Measurement
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined saliva and saliva-stained materials as potential sources of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) for DNA analysis and identity testing.

Abstract

DNA was isolated, and DNA banding patterns suitable for DNA typing were obtained from fresh saliva and various saliva-stained materials such as envelopes, buccal swabs, gags, and cigarettes. DNA and DNA banding patterns were also obtained from actual forensic evidentiary samples that contained mixed saliva/semen stains. The analysis found that the DNA banding patterns obtained from saliva or saliva-stained materials were indistinguishable from the DNA patterns obtained from the blood or hair of the same individual. Intact DNA was readily isolated, and DNA banding patterns were obtained from saliva stored at -20 degrees C and dried saliva stains stored under varying conditions. The study concludes that saliva and saliva-stained material can be reliable DNA sources for analysis and for DNA typing in certain forensic settings. Generally, fresh whole blood or blood-stained material should be the primary source of a person's DNA used as a standard for comparison to evidentiary material in DNA typing, but the findings of this study indicate saliva can be used as an alternative source of DNA for known standards. 4 figures and 13 references (Author abstract modified)