Fingerprint Processing Can Reduce DNA Recovery, New Forensic Study Finds
A study published in the Journal of Forensic Sciences on 8 October 2026 has examined how latent fingerprint-development techniques affect the recovery of DNA from evidence. The findings highlight the importance of selecting processing methods carefully when an item may require both fingerprint examination and genetic analysis.
Researchers from the US Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory standardised the quantity of DNA deposited on glass, paper, fired brass cartridge casings and the adhesive side of tape. This approach helped distinguish the effects of fingerprint-processing chemicals from variations in the amount of DNA initially present.
The team evaluated nine techniques, including ninhydrin, 1,2-indanedione, cyanoacrylate fuming, rhodamine 6G, Basic Yellow 40, Wetwop, physical developer, reflective ultraviolet imaging system (RUVIS) examination and acidified hydrogen peroxide.
Significant reductions in DNA recovery were observed after several treatments, including ninhydrin, 1,2-indanedione, physical developer, RUVIS, Basic Yellow 40, Wetwop and acidified hydrogen peroxide. In contrast, cyanoacrylate fuming and rhodamine 6G did not produce statistically significant reductions under the study conditions.
The researchers also reported that no DNA contamination was detected from the fingerprint-processing techniques evaluated.
The results matter for forensic laboratories that process a single exhibit for multiple forms of evidence. Applying fingerprint chemicals before DNA sampling can reduce the genetic material available for subsequent analysis, potentially affecting the success of profiling.
The study provides comparative evidence to help laboratories plan the order of examinations and avoid processing steps that may compromise later DNA testing.
However, the findings do not mean that a particular technique will always destroy DNA or that the results apply identically to every surface and case. Actual recovery can depend on the substrate, sample composition, environmental exposure and laboratory protocol.