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Application of DNA Fingerprinting using the D1S80 Locus in Lab Classes
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Collection of amino acids and DNA from fingerprints using hydrogels
Ward van Helmond1, Vincent O'Brien, Robin de Jong
1Forensic Science, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Weesperzijde 190, 1097 DZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
The Analyst
|January 23, 2018
Summary
This study introduces a new hydrogel method for analyzing amino acid profiles from fingerprints. This technique aids forensic identification and DNA collection, enhancing evidence recovery.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Fingerprint analysis offers valuable donor information for forensic identification.
- Amino acid profiles and DNA are crucial forensic evidence.
- Current methods for fingerprint evidence collection and analysis have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel hydrogel-based method for collecting and analyzing amino acids from fingerprints.
- To integrate amino acid profiling with enhanced fingerprint visualization.
- To assess the method's efficacy in simultaneous DNA collection.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing cross-linkable dextran-methacrylate solutions to create hydrogels for surface amino acid collection.
- Employing Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS) for amino acid extraction and quantification.
- Evaluating the hydrogel's capacity for DNA recovery compared to conventional swabs.
Main Results:
- The hydrogel method successfully collected and analyzed amino acid profiles from fingerprints.
- The technique allows for improved fingerprint visualization post-collection using cyanoacrylation.
- DNA was collected from fingerprints with a 20-60% yield relative to cotton swabs.
Conclusions:
- The developed hydrogel system provides a dual-purpose forensic tool for amino acid profiling and DNA recovery from fingerprints.
- This method enhances the evidential value of fingerprints through combined analysis and improved visualization.
- The approach offers a promising advancement in forensic science for suspect identification and exclusion.
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