A question we often hear is, “Can we get DNA from a single fingerprint?” To answer this question, consider this: When people touch things, they may leave behind DNA from cells sloughed off upon contact. The number of cells that are sloughed off depends on various factors, including how much they sweat. A number of scientific investigators have observed that DNA can be obtained from a wide array of fingerprints, but not all fingerprints give DNA profiles. The amount of DNA associated with a fingerprint will vary from person to person and can vary with the same person. 

This article describes some of the conditions in which DNA extraction from fingerprints could be successful. It reviews several procedures that have been used on fingerprints left on different surfaces. It also describes the technology as it is currently used in the the UK and US, and briefly discusses the new technology's admissibility in courts.

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Dr. Julie Heinig is in charge of laboratory operations for DDC Forensics. She designed and prepared DDC’s forensic laboratory for accreditations, set up the laboratory policies and procedures, and performed validation studies.

Dr. Heinig earned her Ph.D. in molecular biology from the University of Toronto. She worked for the Cuyahoga County (Ohio) Coroner’s Office as Senior DNA Analyst for five years, handling over 150 cases per year, including DNA testing for the highly publicized Dr. Sam Sheppard case.

Dr. Heinig has appeared as an expert in a number of court cases, testifying on her own casework and that of other scientists. She has extensive experience in collecting crime scene evidence and obtaining DNA profiles from difficult samples. An experienced lecturer, she has conducted seminars and workshops with various groups including attorneys, law enfocement agencies, physicians, and university students.