Latent DNA detection

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ABSTRACT

Trace DNA can be crucial evidence but remains undetectable. The introduction of DNA-binding dyes offered an opportunity to ‘see’ cellular material for the first time. Skin cells, in the form of keratinocytes and corneocytes, deposited on glass, plastic metals can be stained and visualized. Cells appear within 10 s and can be recorded using a portable microscope allowing detection away from the laboratory. Despite the many advantages afforded by using a DNA binding dye, the process has yet to be part of forensic processes. This extended abstract outlines the possibilities and limitations in the detection of latent DNA.

KEYWORDS:

• Diamond Dye
• fluorescence
• latent DNA
• touch DNA

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).