Ascorbic acid and vitamin C-containing beverages delay the leucomalachite green reaction to detect latent bloodstains

Latent bloodstains detection is an important step in crime scene investigation. For this reason, new methods are constantly being developed to improve bloodstains detection sensitivity and selectivity. Presumptive blood tests are usually based on one of two classes of methods, crystal tests and catalytic tests. First, crystal tests involve the heme group of hemoglobin, called porphyrins. Upon addition of the reagents such as an alkaline solution of pyridine to blood stains, the formation of hemoglobin-derivative crystals such as hematin, hemin, and hemochromogen is observed through the microscope.
Source: Legal Medicine - Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Source Type: research