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Related Experiment Videos

International trade in bear gall bladders: forensic source inference

E O Espinoza1, J A Shafer, L R Hagey

  • 1National Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory, Ashland, OR.

Journal of Forensic Sciences
|November 1, 1993
PubMed
Summary

Bile acid profiling using TLC and HPLC identified unique Ursidae family (bear) characteristics. This analysis helps distinguish bear bile from domestic pig bile in forensic cases.

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Area of Science:

  • Forensic Science
  • Biochemistry
  • Zoology

Background:

  • Gall bladders are frequently encountered in criminal investigations.
  • Identifying the species of origin for biological samples is crucial in forensic analysis.
  • Bear bile products are often traded illegally, necessitating reliable identification methods.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To establish a characteristic bile acid profile for the Ursidae family (bears).
  • To differentiate bear bile from domestic pig bile using advanced analytical techniques.
  • To assess the origin of gall bladder samples in forensic seizures.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of principal biliary components, including ursodeoxycholyl-taurine, cholyl-taurine, and chenodeoxycholyl-taurine.
  • Utilized Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) for bile acid profiling.

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  • Characterized fresh and desiccated gall bladders from various sources.

    • Main Results:

    • A distinct bile acid profile was identified as characteristic of the Ursidae family.
    • Samples from Asia showed low Ursidae (3%) and higher "farmed bear" (18%) content.
    • Samples from the U.S.A. (22.6%) and Canada (85%) had significant Ursid content.
    • Non-Ursid samples were consistent with domestic pig (Suidae) bile.

    Conclusions:

    • Bile acid profiling is a reliable method for identifying Ursidae family origin.
    • The established profile aids in distinguishing bear bile from other species, such as domestic pigs.
    • This technique is valuable for forensic investigations involving suspected bear bile products.