IMPACT OF FABRIC TYPE AND ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE ON DNA DETECTION IN SEMINAL AND BLOODSTAINS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Biological stains, such as blood and semen, forms the basis of forensic DNA profiling; nevertheless, the forensic evidence provided by these stains is dependent on the longevity of the DNA under different conditions, on various fabric substrates. Although research into the field of genomics continues to be refined, the interpretation of results remains constrained by substrate effects and degradation kinetics. The current study critically analyzes the forensic literature in an attempt to explore the longevity of DNA in blood and semen stains under different environmental conditions on fabric substrates. A narrative review was conducted based on multidisciplinary databases from 2010 to 2025. The findings revealed that DNA survival depends on several factors and is a function of the matrix-textile interactions. Notable among the findings was the concept of ‘Micro-Environmental Shielding’, whereby the porosity structure of natural fibers traps and protects DNA from destructive by Ultra Violet (UV) rays and microbes. Conversely, synthetic fibers leave biological material more exposed, increasing vulnerability to external stressors. The study further identifies the seminal DNA typically exhibits higher environmental resilience than blood- derived DNA. This review concludes that forensic interpretation must shift from viewing textiles as passive surfaces to active biological preservers. Therefore, adopting a substrate aware frame work for optimizing evidence prioritization and interpreting negative results in complex casework, ensuring that recovery variations are not misinterpreted as biological loss.