An evaluation of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and p30 determinations for the identification of semen on postcoital vaginal swabs.

The following study entails the investigation of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and p30 for the identification of seminal stains in sexual assault cases. A commercial kit was used to test for GGT activity, while p30 was demonstrated with a crossed electrophoresis technique. Specificity, sensitivity, and stability of both markers were studied. Postcoital swabs from lab staff were tested for GGT and p30. In addition, 144 postcoital swabs from case material were tested for p30, spermatozoa, and acid phosphatase. Results show p30 to be a useful semen marker particularly in cases of azoospermia. However, GGT was found to be unsuitable for forensic science casework.