Skin Bacteria Identifies You
We leave more behind than just DNA and fingerprints. We each have bacteria on our hands that can be more unique to us than DNA. According to a study by Rob Knight a microbial ecologist, bacteria on your hands leave a print behind that can be identified with up to 95% certainty. The study tested whether or not skin bacteria could be easily recovered from surfaces and if that bacteria would identify the individuals who had left it behind. He suggests that this can be used alongside DNA evidence or when it is not present. But he cautions that this forensic analysis requires considerable testing and refinement before it can be regularly used in criminal investigations. But once refined this technique could make a significant difference with investigations.
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Source: Business Insider
[Abstract written by Alicia Terrell, ForensIQ Intern, 041014]