Journal Published Online: 07 September 2005
Volume 50, Issue 6

Beware of the Possibility of Fingerprinting Techniques Transferring DNA

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

Fingerprinting brushes have the potential to collect and transfer DNA during powdering. Squirrel-hair fingerprint brushes exposed to specific sets of saliva stains and brushes used in routine casework were tested for their ability to collect and transfer DNA containing material using standard DNA extraction procedures and AmpF/STR® Profiler Plus™ amplification and typing procedures. The tests found that the risk of transferring DNA during powdering and having a detrimental impact on the analysis increases if the examiner powders over either biological stains (such as blood or saliva) or very fresh prints and uses more sensitive PCR amplification and typing procedures. We advocate caution when powdering prints from which DNA may also be collected and provide options for consideration to limit the risk of transferred DNA contamination while fingerprinting.

Author Information

van Oorschot, RAH
Forensic Services Department, Victoria Police, Macleod, Victoria, Australia
Treadwell, S
Forensic Services Department, Victoria Police, Macleod, Victoria, Australia La Trobe University, Australia, Victoria
Beaurepaire, J
Forensic Services Department, Victoria Police, Macleod, Victoria, Australia La Trobe University, Australia, Victoria
Holding, NL
Forensic Services Department, Victoria Police, Macleod, Victoria, Australia La Trobe University, Australia, Victoria
Mitchell, RJ
La Trobe University, Australia, Victoria
Pages: 6
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JFS2004430
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS2004430