Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Touch DNA


Something new to be aware of in the forensic science world is "touch" DNA. Touch DNA is DNA that is left behind on surfaces such as clothing or food to try to get enough microscopic cells to identify (or rule out) suspects. Touch DNA can be used on surfaces where there is no visible stain left behind but where microscopic material may have been left behind. Touch DNA has received it's biggest acclaim in the JonBenet Ramsey case...It was suspected that Ramsey's killer removed her clothing and redressed her. By scraping the clothes, investigators were able to retrieve enough cells to rule out Ramsey's family members-the DNA returned to an unidentified male attacker. Full story here.

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