ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 12

Evidence That “Vaginal Peptidase” Is a Bacterial Gene Product
Cook, CE
Consultant and research associate, Forensic Science Associates, CA

Blake, ET
Consultant and research associate, Forensic Science Associates, CA

Bashinski, JS
Laboratory director, Oakland Police Department, Criminalistics Laboratory, CA

(Received 21 July 1986; accepted 30 October 1986)

Abstract

A peptidase has been described in vaginal samples, termed “vaginal peptidase.” This enzyme has been proposed as a tissue specific marker for vaginal debris. We have explored the presence of this enzyme in vaginal swabs from alleged sexual assault victims and volunteer donors as well as bacterial cultures. These studies reveal that “vaginal peptidase” is composed of a family of peptidase isozymes that originate from several bacterial species. The characterization of “vaginal peptidase” as a tissue specific marker for vaginal debris is premature.

Keywords:
criminalistics, peptidases, body fluids, criminal sex offenses

Paper ID: JFS12400J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS12400J
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