Presumptive Reagent Fluorescein for Detection of Dilute Bloodstains and Subsequent STR Typing of Recovered DNA

• NCJ Number: 185061
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 45 Issue: 5 Dated: September 2000 Pages: 1090-1092
• Author(s): Bruce Budowle Ph.D.; Jeffrey L. Leggitt M.S.; Debra A. Defenbaugh B.S.; Kathleen M. Keys B.S.; Steven F. Malkiewicz B.S.
• Editor(s): R. E. Gaensslen Ph.D.
• Date Published: September 2000
• Length: 3 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Technical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Fluorescein is a presumptive reagent for dilute blood detection other than luminol; the sensitivity of fluorescein approaches the sensitivity of detection levels of luminol, and the fluorescein detection method offers the advantages of working in a lighted environment and the reaction persists longer than luminol.

Abstract

A series of diluted blood stains, ranging from neat to 1:1,000,000, was placed on a variety of subtrates. Three sets were made per substrate. One set was exposed to fluorescein, one set was exposed to luminol, and one set served as an uncontaminated control. The fluorescein signal persisted longer than luminol. However, background staining for fluorescein was observed on some substrates within 30 seconds to 1 minute, and no background staining was observed for luminol. Stains on non-absorbent surfaces were detectable at 1:100,000 dilutions, and stains on absorbent surfaces were detectable usually at no more than 1:100. The sensitivity of detection of fluorescein was comparable to that of luminol. Results of short tandem repeat typing showed no evidence of DNA degradation. 14 references