Body fluid identification: A case for more research and innovation

Body fluids are valuable evidence in a range of offences, with tests regularly being used to identify them. However, with the + increasing sensitivity of DNA profiling, capability gaps are becoming increasingly obvious. DNA profiles can also be obtained from body fluids which cannot be identified. Efforts to improve the capability of BFID have focused on genetic strategies. However, such techniques could not be applied to the crime scene. Thus, there is also a need for improved BFID tests to be used at crime scenes or for the examination of items, which would also include the ability to locate vaginal fluids.