Temporal Assessment of DNA Shedding from Human Hands After Handwashing: Implications for Touch DNA Recovery

This study examines the temporal dynamics of DNA shedding from human hands following handwashing, with a focus on its implications for forensic touch DNA recovery. The research investigates fluctuations in DNA levels over time post-handwashing and highlights significant individual differences in shedding patterns. Statistical analysis revealed that DNA recovery levels at 30 minutes post-handwashing were significantly higher than those at 5 minutes (p < 0.01), demonstrating rapid DNA reaccumulation. Male participants shed significantly more DNA than female participants on average (p < 0.01), underscoring a potential influence of gender on DNA shedding tendencies.