The approach is designed to increase the evidential value of forensic samples while reducing the risk of destroying or contaminating biological material during analysis.

Two main identification methods currently dominate forensic investigations: fingerprint analysis and genetic testing. According to Aneta Lewkowicz, a professor at the University of Gdańsk, these procedures often allow only one type of evidence to be examined and can partially damage the trace.

“The use of dactyloscopic powders applied with special brushes can lead to the transfer of genetic material from one trace to another. The use of a solution to visualise prints greatly reduces this risk,” Lewkowicz said.

The new method developed by her team combines dactyloscopic analysis with DNA testing and the examination of other biomolecules found in sweat and sebum, enabling several types of analysis to be performed on the same sample.

“Combining these two approaches into a single, coherent protocol can significantly increase the evidential value of the material obtained. It can also streamline the work of the investigating authorities and those working directly with the traces,” Lewkowicz said.

The project was conducted in international collaboration with Emiliano Laudadio from the Università Politecnica delle Marche. It also involved Marcelina Malinowska from the Faculty of Biology at the University of Gdańsk and Joanna Koczur from the University of Silesia in Katowice.

Lewkowicz said the method relies on an interdisciplinary approach combining biology, physics and chemistry.

“Only by combining these perspectives is it possible to create a complete, methodologically and interpretatively consistent protocol for handling research material,” she added.

In addition to identifying the person who left a trace, the method could also provide further information about biological material. In cases involving deceased individuals, the analysis may offer clues about the time of death.

Because the procedure does not destroy genetic material or other biomolecules, it increases the reliability and scope of forensic analyses.

“We are striving to combine all elements of the procedure in such a way that, despite the difficult conditions at the scene, it is possible to obtain reliable and repeatable results,” Lewkowicz said.

Although the work is currently basic research, the scientists are already considering practical applications and say the method could be used routinely in forensic laboratories.

“We are open to collaboration and the potential commercialisation of the research results. We believe that in the future, they may have an impact on forensic practice,” Lewkowicz added.

According to the University of Gdańsk, the research contributes both to the development of forensic science and to interdisciplinary studies combining chemistry, biology and physics. The team’s method has been registered with the Polish Patent Office.

Piotr Mirowicz (PAP)

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