A simple identification method of saliva by detecting Streptococcus salivarius using loop-mediated isothermal...

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Microbiology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Accurate identification of saliva is crucial in forensic investigations.
• Previous methods for saliva detection may lack specificity or speed.
• Streptococcus salivarius has been identified as a reliable biomarker for saliva.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple, rapid, and sensitive method for detecting Streptococcus salivarius in forensic samples.
• To establish loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for saliva identification.
• To validate the method's efficacy in distinguishing saliva from other biological materials.

Main Methods:

• Design of a LAMP primer set targeting glucosyltransferase K specific to Streptococcus salivarius.
• Sample preparation involving boiling and mutanolysin treatment.
• Detection of amplified DNA via measurement of absorbance at 660 nm.

Main Results:

• The entire analytical process, including sample preparation, was completed within 2.5 hours.
• The developed LAMP assay successfully identified Streptococcus salivarius in all tested saliva samples.
• No detection of Streptococcus salivarius occurred in other body fluids or on skin surfaces.
• The method demonstrated successful detection in various mock forensic samples.

Conclusions:

• The developed loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay provides a simple and rapid method for Streptococcus salivarius detection.
• This technique is highly specific for saliva, showing no cross-reactivity with other body fluids or skin.
• The assay is a valuable tool for forensic practice, enabling efficient and reliable saliva identification.