Antibody profiling as an identification tool for forensic samples

Vicki S. Thompson; Karen B. Barrett; Tilton Davis; Sylvia R. Nieto; Thomas F. Unger

doi:10.1117/12.334545

4 February 1999 Antibody profiling as an identification tool for forensic samples

Vicki S. Thompson, Karen B. Barrett, Tilton Davis, Sylvia R. Nieto, Thomas F. Unger

Proceedings Volume 3576, Investigation and Forensic Science Technologies; (1999) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.334545
Event: Enabling Technologies for Law Enforcement and Security, 1998, Boston, MA, United States

Abstract

A novel identification technique called antibody profiling was examined as an alternative to DNA-based methods for matching crime scene evidence to a suspect. This technique provides results within 2 hours, is 1/100 the cost of DNA tests, and does not require skilled technicians or expensive equipment. A matrix of 422 blood samples were prepared to mimic typical crime scene conditions and provide validation for the technique. The effects of sample size, drying temperature, binary and ternary blood mixtures, adulteration with chemicals, and placement on a variety of surfaces were examined. Using the antibody profiling method, 91% of the 422 samples were correctly identified. In addition, binary blood mixtures could be identified with up to 40% contaminating blood. Temperatures at or above 60 degree(s)C and the presence of soil in the samples interfered with the ability to correctly identify samples. In this study, the antibody profiling technique was shown to be an excellent alternative to DNA-based identification methods. This method will find applications in situations where results are needed rapidly, where it is necessary to screen multiple suspects, and in remote areas where the equipment and technical skills needed for DNA testing are not available.

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Vicki S. Thompson, Karen B. Barrett, Tilton Davis, Sylvia R. Nieto, and Thomas F. Unger "Antibody profiling as an identification tool for forensic samples", Proc. SPIE 3576, Investigation and Forensic Science Technologies, (4 February 1999); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.334545

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KEYWORDS

Blood

Profiling

Binary data

Forensic science

Statistical analysis

Biological research

Control systems

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