Journal Published Online: 01 October 1984
Volume 29, Issue 4

The Determination of Sex from Forcibly Removed Hairs

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

The determination of sex from forcibly removed hairs in forensic science laboratories has, in the past, been based almost entirely on the presence or absence of the Y chromosome in the cells of the hair root sheath. Since the human male genotype is XY and the female is XX, a technique was devised that permits root sheath cells to be stained sequentially for the Y and then the X chromosome using quinacrine mustard. Following staining, the Y and the X chromosome fluorescence were observed, at pH 5.5 and 3.0, respectively, by epifluorescence. The X and Y chromosome counts obtained for a single hair root specimen were reported as a Y — X (Y minus X) score. The results reported show that specimens from males gave positive Y — X score while specimens from females gave negative Y — X scores. Results of an age study and blind trials were also reported.

Author Information

Mudd, JL
FBI Academy, FBI Laboratory, Quantico, VA
Pages: 9
Price: $25.00
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Stock #: JFS11773J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11773J