President's DNA Initiative
-
Advancing Justice Through DNA Technology
-
Advancing Justice Through DNA Technology
DNA Analyst Training
Urine
Home > Forensic Biology > Testing of Body Fluids & Tissues > Urine
Urine contains a large amount of urea, a chemical byproduct of normal metabolic processes in the body. Identification of high levels of urea can therefore serve as a screening test for urine in fluids or stains. The presence of creatinine is also used for screening purposes. Creatinine forms a red compound with picric acid (known as the Jaffe Test). Urine also has a characteristic odor, which can help in locating its presence. Gentle heating of urine-stained materials gives rise to a distinctive odor.
Urine from secretors will contain ABH substances. This is a source of contamination in testing underclothing.
