A breakthrough in forensic investigations has been made thanks to a protein found in jellyfish. Scientists have developed a spray that can detect fingerprints in just 10 seconds, revolutionizing the way crime scenes are analyzed.
The new spray, called “JellyPrint”, was inspired by a protein found in the tentacles of jellyfish. This protein, called green fluorescent protein (GFP), is known for its ability to glow under certain conditions. Scientists have harnessed this unique property to create a spray that can quickly and accurately detect fingerprints.
Traditionally, collecting and analyzing fingerprints at a crime scene can be a time-consuming and tedious process. Investigators must use powders or chemicals to reveal the fingerprints, which can take hours or even days. But with JellyPrint, the process is significantly faster and more efficient.
The spray works by binding to the oils and amino acids present in fingerprints, causing them to glow under UV light. This makes it easier for investigators to see and photograph the fingerprints, which can then be analyzed and compared to a database of known prints.
Not only does JellyPrint save time, but it also has a higher success rate in detecting fingerprints compared to traditional methods. In fact, in a recent study, the spray was able to detect fingerprints on a variety of surfaces, including glass, metal, and plastic, with an accuracy rate of over 99%.
This breakthrough has the potential to greatly impact the field of forensic science. With the ability to quickly and accurately detect fingerprints, investigators can now gather crucial evidence in a fraction of the time it used to take. This could lead to faster and more accurate identifications of suspects, ultimately helping to solve cases more efficiently.
But the benefits of JellyPrint don’t stop there. The spray is also non-toxic and non-destructive, meaning it can be used on delicate surfaces without causing any damage. This is a significant improvement compared to traditional methods, which can sometimes damage the fingerprints and make them unusable for analysis.
The development of JellyPrint is a testament to the power of nature and the potential for biomimicry in scientific advancements. By studying and replicating the properties of GFP found in jellyfish, scientists have created a tool that has the potential to greatly improve the way we investigate and solve crimes.
The team behind JellyPrint is already working on further improvements and applications for the spray. They hope to eventually make it available for use in crime labs and police departments around the world.
In conclusion, the development of JellyPrint is a game-changer in the world of forensic investigations. With its ability to quickly and accurately detect fingerprints, this spray has the potential to greatly improve the efficiency and success rate of solving crimes. Thanks to the inspiration from jellyfish, we are one step closer to a safer and more just society.