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Exploring Sample Storage Conditions for the Mass Spectrometric Analysis of Extracted Lipids from Latent Fingerprints
Aleesa E Chua1, Eden P Go1, Heather Desaire1
1Department of Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA.
Biomolecules
|April 30, 2025
Summary
Storing latent fingerprint samples on deposition foil is viable for up to eight months, minimizing variability in lipid analysis for large-scale studies. This method preserves key features, offering practical guidance for sample handling.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Uncontrolled variability in sample preparation, processing, and storage can obscure subtle biological signals in large-scale studies.
- Latent fingerprint analysis is crucial for forensic investigations, but sample integrity is paramount.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate storage conditions and preparation methods for minimizing systematic variability in latent fingerprint lipid analysis.
- To determine the optimal storage duration and method for preserving lipid profiles from latent fingerprints.
Main Methods:
- Comparison of two sample preparation methods: immediate extraction versus delayed extraction after foil storage.
- Evaluation of storage durations for latent fingerprint samples stored on deposition foil.
- Analysis of extracted lipids to assess the impact of storage conditions on lipid profiles.
Main Results:
- Latent fingerprint samples stored on deposition foil showed minimal degradation of key lipid features after eight months.
- Differences in lipid profiles across various storage conditions were minor and unlikely to significantly impact large-scale studies.
- Delayed preparation after foil storage proved to be a viable method for sample handling.
Conclusions:
- Storage of latent fingerprint samples on deposition foil is a practical and effective strategy for long-term preservation.
- Optimized storage conditions can significantly reduce systematic variability, enhancing the reliability of latent fingerprint analysis in large-scale forensic studies.
- These findings provide essential guidance for forensic laboratories aiming to improve sample management and data quality.
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