Bacteria on Hand for Forensic Identification

"Bacteria on our hands could be used for forensic identification, as well as DNA, say scientists.

Bacteria on Hand for Forensic Identification

Hand bacteria study for forensic identification


Team of scientists led by Professor Noah Fierer of the University of Colorado at Boulder, USA, found that a group of bacteria that live in the skin of the hands someone different for each individual. Research findings for forensic medicine are described in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).

The research team match samples of bacteria from three computer keyboards to their respective owners, and take a sample by wiping one's computer keyboard and the result is the same bacteria that they found the bacteria on the hands of the computer owner. Even in the hands of the people most wary of hygiene, can be found about 150 different species of bacteria. Bacteria in the hands can be seen with ultraviolet light-Stokes Photo Luminescence (SPL). Each person leaves a unique trail when they live their daily lives. Scientists say, this is what could be the basis of the latest forensic tools.

Scientists say that up to 70-90% accuracy for this new medical technology, and of course this will be refined over time.

The scientists also explained they are identical twins and have the same DNA profile, substantially has a wide range of bacteria live and grow in their hands. This suggests that the collective genome (microbes) may be more indicative of the personal identity of the human genome itself.