An Optimized Forensic DNA Analysis Workflow for Obtaining STR Results from Archived Latent Fingerprints

Abstract

Since the initial introduction of forensic DNA analysis in the 1980s, advancements have been made within the forensic biology community that have improved the success rate of obtaining DNA profiles. Fingerprints that were originally intended for latent examination could be a potential source of DNA. Archived latent fingerprints contain touch DNA between an adhesive barrier of tape and a paper substrate. Collect a DNA sample by separating the tape and paper material, then cut each substrate into small pieces (approximately 3 mm × 3 mm). Extract DNA samples using the QIAamp® DNA Investigator Kit (QIAGEN®), a silica-column based method, and follow the manufacturer’s protocol for “paper and other similar materials.” Pair it with the Centri-Sep™ spin column (Thermo Fisher Scientific) concentration method to optimize the biological workflow for DNA profiling.