Isolation of Highly-Specific Protein Markers for the Identification of Biological Stains: Adapting Comparative Proteomics to Forensics

The current proposal is to employ advanced protein separation technology (ProteomeLab PF2D System) to generate a comprehensive profile of virtually every protein in six body fluids (venous and menstrual blood, semen, saliva, vaginal secretions and urine) of value to the forensic community. While some proteins will be found in multiple body fluids, a definable subset of other proteins will be unique to a single body fluid. By carefully mapping and rigorously comparing the "proteomic profiles" for different body fluids, it will be possible to identify those specific proteins that represent the best targets for subsequent validation as forensic markers of individual body fluids. Pilot studies involving human saliva, urine and seminal fluid support the fundamental feasibility of this approach. The researcher will collaborate with forensic scientists from the Colorado State Police. This work will provide the forensic community with a comprehensive database of virtually every protein with potential forensic utility as unique markers for a given body fluid.

ca/ncf