Origin, Analytical Characterization, and Use of Human Odor in Forensics. Issue 2 (25th January 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cuzuel, Vincent; Cognon, Guillaume; Rivals, Isabelle; Sauleau, Charles; Heulard, François; Thiébaut, Didier; Vial, Jérôme
• Is Part Of: Journal of forensic sciences. Volume 62:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 330
• Page End: 350
• Publication Date: 2017-01-25
• Subjects: forensic science -- human odor -- odor sampling -- odor print -- gas chromatography -- mass spectrometry -- volatile compound sampling procedures; Medical jurisprudence -- Periodicals; Forensic sciences -- Periodicals; Forensic Medicine -- Periodicals; Gerechtelijke geneeskunde; Gerechtelijke chemie; Gerechtelijke psychiatrie; 363.2505
• DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13394
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-1198

Abstract

Abstract: Developing a strategy to characterize the odor prints of individuals should be relevant to support identification obtained using dogs in courts of justice. This article proposes an overview of the techniques used for the forensic profiling of human odor. After reviewing the origin of human odor—both genetic and physiological—the different analytical steps from sample collection to statistical data processing are presented. The first challenge is the collection of odor, whether by direct sampling with polymer patches, cotton gauze, etc., or indirect sampling with devices like Scent Transfer Unit. Then, analytical techniques are presented. Analyses are commonly performed with gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. As they yield large amounts of data, advanced statistical tools are needed to provide efficient and reliable data processing, which is essential to give more probative value to information.