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Singh J, Kumar A, Trivedi S, Pandey SK. Advancements in estimating post-mortem interval in medico-legal practice: A comprehensive review. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2025; 75:102627. [PMID: 40273647 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2025.102627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2025] [Accepted: 04/18/2025] [Indexed: 04/26/2025]
Abstract
Estimating the Post-Mortem Interval (PMI) is a crucial aspect of forensic investigations, aiding in the resolution of criminal cases, identifying missing persons, and understanding decomposition processes. This review provides an exhaustive analysis of recent advancements in PMI estimation techniques, encompassing both traditional and emerging methodologies. Included in the study is an exhaustive examination of well-established methodologies, including algor mortis, livor mortis, and rigor mortis, as well as their shortcomings and improvements. It also delves into innovative approaches, including forensic entomology, chemical and molecular biology, microbiology, artificial intelligence, etc. Furthermore, this article discusses the integration of multiple disciplines and the potential of interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance PMI accuracy and reliability. By synthesizing the latest research findings and technological innovations, this review aims to provide forensic practitioners, law enforcement agencies, and medico-legal professionals with a comprehensive understanding of the current state-of-the-art in PMI estimation, facilitating more effective crime scene investigations and judicial proceedings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotsana Singh
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005 U.P, India
| | - Ambrish Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005 U.P, India
| | - Shruti Trivedi
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005 U.P, India.
| | - Surendra Kumar Pandey
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005 U.P, India.
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2
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Cardinale AN, Di Lorenzo A, Bellino M, Strisciullo G, Mussi V, Sablone S. Thanatochemistry and the role of hypoxanthine in the post-mortem interval estimation: a systematic literature review. Int J Legal Med 2025:10.1007/s00414-024-03378-x. [PMID: 39985608 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-024-03378-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2024] [Accepted: 11/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2025]
Abstract
The estimation of post-mortem interval (PMI) is of utmost importance for forensic pathologists due to its implication in medico-legal evaluations. Research over the last thirty years has sought new methods for estimating the time of death, particularly focused on human biomarkers whose concentration changes over time after death. Although most studies are based on potassium (K+) concentrations in blood and vitreous humor (VH), hypoxanthine (Hx) has shown great promise in assessing PMI. Following PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review addresses the PICO question: "In human cadavers, what is the role of hypoxanthine, where, and with what analytical techniques is it currently used for post-mortem interval estimation?". Twenty-four papers were retrieved. The results indicate that Hx concentration can be estimated in various biofluids, VH being the most commonly accounted for. Furthermore, different pre-analytical procedures are resorted to for sample preparation, such as several methodologies utilized to detect Hx concentration. The relationship between the so-obtained Hx levels and PMI is expressed quantitively (through regressions or correlation coefficients) or semi-quantitatively (by changes in nuclear magnetic resonance spectra). PMI estimation accuracy improves significantly when additional factors are considered (such as ambient and rectal temperature, urea concentration, body weight, and cause of death) or when new methodologies providing flexible regression models are applied. Despite the promising potential, many limitations remain. Notably, the heterogeneity of sample selection and pre-analytical/analytical phases leads to inconsistent results. Thus, much more should be done to lay procedural standards and optimize biochemistry and Hx utilization in PMI-related forensic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Nicola Cardinale
- Section of Legal Medicine, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari Policlinico Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Lorenzo
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari Policlinico Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Mara Bellino
- Section of Legal Medicine, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari Policlinico Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Strisciullo
- Toxicology Laboratory, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro Bari Policlinico Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Valentina Mussi
- IMM CNR, Institute of Microelectronics and Microsystems, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Sablone
- Section of Legal Medicine, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari Policlinico Hospital, Bari, Italy.
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3
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Secco L, Palumbi S, Padalino P, Grosso E, Perilli M, Casonato M, Cecchetto G, Viel G. "Omics" and Postmortem Interval Estimation: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:1034. [PMID: 39940802 PMCID: PMC11817326 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26031034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2024] [Revised: 01/22/2025] [Accepted: 01/23/2025] [Indexed: 02/16/2025] Open
Abstract
Postmortem interval (PMI) estimation is a challenge of utmost importance in forensic daily practice. Traditional methods face limitations in accuracy and reliability, particularly for advanced decomposition stages. Recent advances in "omics" sciences, providing a holistic view of postmortem biochemical changes, offer promising avenues for overcoming these challenges. This systematic review aims at investigating the role of mass-spectrometry-based "omics" approaches in PMI estimation to elucidate molecular mechanisms underlying predictable time-dependent biochemical alterations occurring after death. A systematic search was performed, adhering to PRISMA guidelines, through "free-text" protocols in the databases PubMed, SCOPUS and Web of Science. The inclusion criteria were as follows: experimental studies analyzing, as investigated samples, animal or human corpses in toto or in parts and estimating PMI through MS-based untargeted omics approaches, with full texts in the English language. Quality assessment was performed using STROBE and ARRIVE critical appraisal checklists. A total of 1152 papers were screened and 26 included. Seventeen papers adopted a proteomic approach (65.4%), nine focused on metabolomics (34.6%) and two on lipidomics (7.7%). Most papers (57.7%) focused on short PMIs (<7 days), the remaining papers explored medium (7-120 days) (30.77%) and long PMIs (>120 days) (15.4%). Muscle tissue was the most frequently analyzed substrate (34.6% of papers), followed by liver (19.2%), bones (15.4%), cardiac blood and leaking fluids (11.5%), lung, kidney and serum (7.7%), and spleen, vitreous humor and heart (3.8%). Predictable time-dependent degradation patterns of macromolecules in different biological substrates have been discussed, with special attention to molecular insights into postmortem biochemical changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Secco
- Legal Medicine and Toxicology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via G. Falloppio 50, 35121 Padova, Italy; (L.S.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (E.G.); (M.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Stefano Palumbi
- Legal Medicine and Toxicology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via G. Falloppio 50, 35121 Padova, Italy; (L.S.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (E.G.); (M.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Pasquale Padalino
- Legal Medicine and Toxicology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via G. Falloppio 50, 35121 Padova, Italy; (L.S.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (E.G.); (M.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Eva Grosso
- Legal Medicine and Toxicology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via G. Falloppio 50, 35121 Padova, Italy; (L.S.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (E.G.); (M.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Matteo Perilli
- Legal Medicine and Toxicology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via G. Falloppio 50, 35121 Padova, Italy; (L.S.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (E.G.); (M.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Matteo Casonato
- Legal Medicine and Toxicology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via G. Falloppio 50, 35121 Padova, Italy; (L.S.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (E.G.); (M.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Giovanni Cecchetto
- Legal Medicine, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Guido Viel
- Legal Medicine and Toxicology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via G. Falloppio 50, 35121 Padova, Italy; (L.S.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (E.G.); (M.P.); (M.C.)
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Chhikara A, Kumari P, Dalal J, Kumari K. Protein degradation patterns as biomarkers for post-mortem interval estimation: A comprehensive review of proteomic approaches in forensic science. J Proteomics 2025; 310:105326. [PMID: 39384102 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2024.105326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2024] [Revised: 10/02/2024] [Accepted: 10/02/2024] [Indexed: 10/11/2024]
Abstract
The determination of post-mortem interval (PMI) is a critical process for forensic medical-legal investigations. Proteomic techniques are gaining prominence in analysing forensic biological samples. After death, studying the proteins present in human bodies could be critical in discovering important new biomarkers that can serve as reliable indicators of various factors. A literature review is conducted on estimating PMI through protein degradation analysis using PubMed, NCBI, SCOPUS, Research Gate, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. A total of 32 studies were identified and studied. It is found that the most commonly studied tissue type is the skeleton muscle (15 studies), followed by others. The kinetics of several proteins and proteases were particularly correlated with PMI. Different proteins degrade differently after death: alpha-actinin, GAPDH, and alpha-tubulin breakdown slowly, but meta-vinculin breaks down early. Tropomyosin does not change for a long time after death, up to 10 days. Certain markers had a positive correlation with PMI, meaning that their amount increased as PMI hours increased, while other markers showed a negative correlation, suggesting that their number decreased with time. The level of several biological markers, such as SERBP1, COX7B, and SOD2, changed gradually and consistently as the PMI increased. The information gathered from this analysis provides new opportunities for precise PMI measurements in legal contexts by expanding the research area's use in human skeletal tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Chhikara
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Pallavi Kumari
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Jyoti Dalal
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India.
| | - Kiran Kumari
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
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Becker J, Bühren V, Schmelzer L, Reckert A, Eickhoff SB, Ritz S, Naue J. Molecular age prediction using skull bone samples from individuals with and without signs of decomposition: a multivariate approach combining analysis of posttranslational protein modifications and DNA methylation. Int J Legal Med 2025; 139:157-174. [PMID: 39256256 PMCID: PMC11732915 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-024-03314-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
The prediction of the chronological age of a deceased individual at time of death can provide important information in case of unidentified bodies. The methodological possibilities in these cases depend on the availability of tissues, whereby bones are preserved for a long time due to their mineralization under normal environmental conditions. Age-dependent changes in DNA methylation (DNAm) as well as the accumulation of pentosidine (Pen) and D-aspartic acid (D-Asp) could be useful molecular markers for age prediction. A combination of such molecular clocks into one age prediction model seems favorable to minimize inter- and intra-individual variation. We therefore developed (I) age prediction models based on the three molecular clocks, (II) examined the improvement of age prediction by combination, and (III) investigated if samples with signs of decomposition can also be examined using these three molecular clocks. Skull bone from deceased individuals was collected to obtain a training dataset (n = 86), and two independent test sets (without signs of decomposition: n = 44, with signs of decomposition: n = 48). DNAm of 6 CpG sites in ELOVL2, KLF14, PDE4C, RPA2, TRIM59 and ZYG11A was analyzed using massive parallel sequencing (MPS). The D-Asp and Pen contents were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Age prediction models based on ridge regression were developed resulting in mean absolute errors (MAEs)/root mean square errors (RMSE) of 5.5years /6.6 years (DNAm), 7.7 years /9.3 years (Pen) and 11.7 years /14.6 years (D-Asp) in the test set. Unsurprisingly, a general lower accuracy for the DNAm, D-Asp, and Pen models was observed in samples from decomposed bodies (MAE: 7.4-11.8 years, RMSE: 10.4-15.4 years). This reduced accuracy could be caused by multiple factors with different impact on each molecular clock. To acknowledge general changes due to decomposition, a pilot model for a possible age prediction based on the decomposed samples as training set improved the accuracy evaluated by leave-one-out-cross validation (MAE: 6.6-12 years, RMSE: 8.1-15.9 years). The combination of all three molecular age clocks did reveal comparable MAE and RMSE results to the pure analysis of the DNA methylation for the test set without signs of decomposition. However, an improvement by the combination of all three clocks was possible for the decomposed samples, reducing especially the deviation in case of outliers in samples with very high decomposition and low DNA content. The results demonstrate the general potential in a combined analysis of different molecular clocks in specific cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Becker
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Duesseldorf, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - V Bühren
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Duesseldorf, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - L Schmelzer
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - A Reckert
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Duesseldorf, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - S B Eickhoff
- Institute for Systems Neuroscience, University Hospital Duesseldorf, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Brain & Behaviour (INM-7), Research Centre Juelich, 52428, Juelich, Germany
| | - S Ritz
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Duesseldorf, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany.
| | - J Naue
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany.
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Bailo P, Capitanio D, Battistini A, De Angelis D, Moriggi M, Tambuzzi S, Marchesi M, Vedovati S, Arosio MEG, Auxilia F, Gelfi C, Piccinini A. Mass spectrometry proteomic profiling of postmortem human muscle degradation for PMI estimation. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 365:112256. [PMID: 39461267 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2024] [Revised: 08/29/2024] [Accepted: 10/18/2024] [Indexed: 10/29/2024]
Abstract
The discovery of new methods for determining the post-mortem interval is of significant forensic interest. Mass spectrometry has enhanced the accuracy of assessing post-mortem protein decay, with skeletal muscle being the most studied substrate due to its intrinsic properties of postmortem decay. In this pilot study, human skeletal muscle tissue (iliopsoas) was harvested and allowed to decay under controlled temperature and humidity conditions at predetermined intervals. The samples were analyzed using mass spectrometry proteomics for both qualitative and quantitative evaluation of proteins and peptides. Candidate proteins were validated through immunoblotting. The results were significant, identifying several proteins that could aid in estimating the post-mortem interval. Notably, PLIN4, MYOZ2, SYNPO2, and BAG3 were validated by immunoblotting over a broader range of experimental points and temperatures. Furthermore, human results were compared with animal muscle samples from a previous study, revealing similarities in decomposition kinetics. This analysis of human samples marks a step forward in the potential forensic application of proteomic evaluation by mass spectrometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bailo
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino 62032, Italy
| | - Daniele Capitanio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 31, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Alessio Battistini
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Health Sciences, University of Milan, Via della Commenda 10, Milan 20122, Italy.
| | - Danilo De Angelis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 31, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Manuela Moriggi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 31, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Stefano Tambuzzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 31, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Matteo Marchesi
- SS Medicina Legale del Polo Ospedaliero ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Piazza OMS 1, Bergamo 24127, Italy
| | - Sergio Vedovati
- SS Coordinamento prelievo e Trapianto d'organo del Polo Ospedaliero ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Piazza OMS 1, Bergamo 24127, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Auxilia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; ASST Fatebenefratelli - Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Cecilia Gelfi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 31, Milan 20133, Italy; IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Via Riccardo Galeazzi 4, Milan 20161, Italy
| | - Andrea Piccinini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 31, Milan 20133, Italy
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Bertrand B, Clauzel T, Richardin P, Bécart A, Morbidelli P, Hédouin V, Marques C. Application and implications of radiocarbon dating in forensic case work: when medico-legal significance meets archaeological relevance. Forensic Sci Res 2024; 9:owae046. [PMID: 39435462 PMCID: PMC11491528 DOI: 10.1093/fsr/owae046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 10/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The estimation of the postmortem interval for skeletal remains is a crucial aspect of forensic anthropology. This paper illustrates the importance of radiocarbon analysis for establishing medico-legal significance and supporting forensic identification, through the analysis of three case studies for which the years of both birth and death were investigated. In Audresselles, Northern France, a partial skull was discovered with no contextual information or identity. Radiocarbon dating yielded an average calibrated calendar age of 4232 BCE (92.5% probability), indicating significant archaeological value but no forensic relevance. In the second case, skeletal remains were found in the flooded underground of a historical fort at Wimereux, Northern France, also with no identity. Radiocarbon dating based on the bomb-pulse curve indicated a calibrated date of death in 1962 CE (37.3% probability) or 1974-1975 CE (58.1% probability), both surpassing the French statute of limitations. Lastly, a skeleton with a suspected identity was discovered near Valenciennes, Northern France, and various biological tissues underwent radiocarbon dating. A bone sample suggested a calibrated date of death of 1998-2002 CE (84.6% probability), differing from a hair sample (2013-2018 CE, 83.3% probability) because of the slower bone tissue remodeling process. DNA analysis confirmed the person's identity, reported missing a decade prior to the discovery of the remains, following the alignment of the radiocarbon results with the individual's year of birth based on dental tissues and year of death. These case studies reveal that traditional radiocarbon dating and bomb-pulse dating are essential tools for estimating the postmortem interval, providing mutual benefits for archaeologists, forensic anthropologists, and the criminal justice system. Key points Traditional radiocarbon dating and bomb-pulse dating are essential tools to establish the archaeological relevance or medico-legal significance of human skeletal remains.Bomb-pulse dating enables assessment of an individual's years of birth and death.Bomb-pulse dating helps to narrow down the pool of candidates for identification.Radiocarbon analysis provides mutual benefits for archaeologists, forensic anthropologists, and the criminal justice system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benoit Bertrand
- Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, ULR 7367—UTML&A—Unité de Taphonomie Médico-Légale et Anatomie, Lille, France
- Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Département Homme et Environnement, UMR 7194—HNHP, Institut de Paléontologie Humaine, Panhard, Paris, France
| | - Thibault Clauzel
- Laboratoire des Sciences du Climat et de l’Environnement, LSCE/IPSL, CEA-CNRS-UVSQ, Université Paris-Saclay, Orme des Merisiers, Gif-sur-Yvette Cedex, France
| | - Pascale Richardin
- Centre de Recherche et de Restauration Des Musées de France (C2RMF), Palais du Louvre, FRANCE/CNRS-UMR8068 Technologie et Ethnologie des Mondes PréhistoriqueS (TEMPS), Université Paris-Nanterre, Paris, France
| | - Anne Bécart
- Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, ULR 7367—UTML&A—Unité de Taphonomie Médico-Légale et Anatomie, Lille, France
| | - Philippe Morbidelli
- Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, ULR 7367—UTML&A—Unité de Taphonomie Médico-Légale et Anatomie, Lille, France
| | - Valery Hédouin
- Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, ULR 7367—UTML&A—Unité de Taphonomie Médico-Légale et Anatomie, Lille, France
| | - Carina Marques
- Research Centre for Anthropology and Health (CIAS), Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra Ed. São Bento, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Anthropology and School of Integrative Biological and Chemical Sciences, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, University Dr, Edinburg, TX, USA
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Procopio N, Bonicelli A. From flesh to bones: Multi-omics approaches in forensic science. Proteomics 2024; 24:e2200335. [PMID: 38683823 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202200335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Recent advancements in omics techniques have revolutionised the study of biological systems, enabling the generation of high-throughput biomolecular data. These innovations have found diverse applications, ranging from personalised medicine to forensic sciences. While the investigation of multiple aspects of cells, tissues or entire organisms through the integration of various omics approaches (such as genomics, epigenomics, metagenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics) has already been established in fields like biomedicine and cancer biology, its full potential in forensic sciences remains only partially explored. In this review, we have presented a comprehensive overview of state-of-the-art analytical platforms employed in omics research, with specific emphasis on their application in the forensic field for the identification of the cadaver and the cause of death. Moreover, we have conducted a critical analysis of the computational integration of omics approaches, and highlighted the latest advancements in employing multi-omics techniques for forensic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Procopio
- Research Centre for Field Archaeology and Experimental Taphonomy, School of Law and Policing, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Andrea Bonicelli
- Research Centre for Field Archaeology and Experimental Taphonomy, School of Law and Policing, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
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Schmidt VM, Zelger P, Wöss C, Fodor M, Hautz T, Schneeberger S, Huck CW, Arora R, Brunner A, Zelger B, Schirmer M, Pallua JD. Handheld hyperspectral imaging as a tool for the post-mortem interval estimation of human skeletal remains. Heliyon 2024; 10:e25844. [PMID: 38375262 PMCID: PMC10875450 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
In forensic medicine, estimating human skeletal remains' post-mortem interval (PMI) can be challenging. Following death, bones undergo a series of chemical and physical transformations due to their interactions with the surrounding environment. Post-mortem changes have been assessed using various methods, but estimating the PMI of skeletal remains could still be improved. We propose a new methodology with handheld hyperspectral imaging (HSI) system based on the first results from 104 human skeletal remains with PMIs ranging between 1 day and 2000 years. To differentiate between forensic and archaeological bone material, the Convolutional Neural Network analyzed 65.000 distinct diagnostic spectra: the classification accuracy was 0.58, 0.62, 0.73, 0.81, and 0.98 for PMIs of 0 week-2 weeks, 2 weeks-6 months, 6 months-1 year, 1 year-10 years, and >100 years, respectively. In conclusion, HSI can be used in forensic medicine to distinguish bone materials >100 years old from those <10 years old with an accuracy of 98%. The model has adequate predictive performance, and handheld HSI could serve as a novel approach to objectively and accurately determine the PMI of human skeletal remains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena-Maria Schmidt
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstraße 44, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Philipp Zelger
- University Clinic for Hearing, Voice and Speech Disorders, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Claudia Wöss
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstraße 44, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Margot Fodor
- OrganLifeTM, Department of Visceral, Transplant and Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Theresa Hautz
- OrganLifeTM, Department of Visceral, Transplant and Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Stefan Schneeberger
- OrganLifeTM, Department of Visceral, Transplant and Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christian Wolfgang Huck
- Institute of Analytical Chemistry and Radiochemistry, University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Rohit Arora
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Andrea Brunner
- Institute of Pathology, Neuropathology, and Molecular Pathology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstrasse 44, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Bettina Zelger
- Institute of Pathology, Neuropathology, and Molecular Pathology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstrasse 44, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Michael Schirmer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinic II, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Johannes Dominikus Pallua
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
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10
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Battistini A, Capitanio D, Bailo P, Moriggi M, Tambuzzi S, Gelfi C, Piccinini A. Proteomic analysis by mass spectrometry of postmortem muscle protein degradation for PMI estimation: A pilot study. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 349:111774. [PMID: 37399773 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
The determination of the postmortem interval is a topic of great forensic interest. The possibility of using new technologies has allowed the study of postmortem decay of biomolecules in the determination of PMI. Skeletal muscle proteins are promising candidates because skeletal muscle exhibits slower postmortem decay compared to other internal organs and nervous tissues, while its degradation is faster than cartilage and bone. In this pilot study, skeletal muscle tissue from pigs was degraded at two different controlled temperatures, 21 °C and 6 °C, and analysed at predefined times points: 0, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h. The obtained samples were analysed by mass spectrometry proteomics approach for qualitative and quantitative evaluation of proteins and peptides. Immunoblotting validation was performed for the candidate proteins. The results obtained appeared significant and identified several proteins useful for possible postmortem interval estimation. Of these proteins, PDLIM7, TPM1, and ATP2A2 were validated by immunoblotting at a larger number of experimental points and at different temperatures. The results obtained are in agreement with those observed in similar works. In addition, the use of a mass spectrometry approach increased the number of protein species identified, providing a larger panel of proteins for PMI assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Battistini
- Sezione di Medicina Legale e delle Assicurazioni, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli, 37, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | | | - Paolo Bailo
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Manuela Moriggi
- University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Tambuzzi
- Sezione di Medicina Legale e delle Assicurazioni, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli, 37, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Cecilia Gelfi
- University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy; IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Via Riccardo Galeazzi 4, 20161 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Piccinini
- Sezione di Medicina Legale e delle Assicurazioni, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli, 37, 20133 Milan, Italy
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11
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Franceschetti L, Amadasi A, Bugelli V, Bolsi G, Tsokos M. Estimation of Late Postmortem Interval: Where Do We Stand? A Literature Review. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:783. [PMID: 37372068 PMCID: PMC10295266 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Estimating time since death can be challenging for forensic experts, and is one of the most challenging activities concerning the forensic world. Various methods have been assessed to calculate the postmortem interval on dead bodies in different stages of decomposition and are currently widely used. Nowadays, the only well-recognized dating technique is carbon-14 radioisotope measurement, whereas other methods have been tested throughout the years involving different disciplines with different and sometimes not univocal results. Today, there is no precise and secure method to precisely determine time since death, and late postmortem interval estimation remains one of the most debated topics in forensic pathology. Many proposed methods have shown promising results, and it is desirable that with further studies some of them might become acknowledged techniques to resolve such a difficult and important challenge. The present review aims at presenting studies about the different techniques that have been tested in order to find a valuable method for estimating time since death for skeletal remains. By providing a comprehensive overview, the purpose of this work is to offer readers new perspectives on postmortem interval estimation and to improve current practice in the management of skeletal remains and decomposed bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Franceschetti
- Istituto di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Alberto Amadasi
- Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Turmstr. 21 (Haus M), 10559 Berlin, Germany
| | - Valentina Bugelli
- South-East Tuscany Local Health Unit, Department of Legal Medicine, via Cimabue 109, 58100 Grosseto, Italy;
| | - Giulia Bolsi
- Istituto di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Michael Tsokos
- Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Turmstr. 21 (Haus M), 10559 Berlin, Germany
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12
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Evaluation of Muscle Proteins for Estimating the Post-Mortem Interval in Veterinary Forensic Pathology. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040563. [PMID: 36830350 PMCID: PMC9951657 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Postmortem cadaveric changes are commonly used to estimate the postmortem interval (PMI) in humans and animals. However, these modifications have been poorly investigated in animals of interest to veterinary forensic pathology. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential use of muscle proteins (desmin and dystrophin) as biomarkers for estimating the PMI in dogs. For this study, 10 dead adult dogs were evaluated for 4 days in a temperature-controlled room at 19 ± 1 °C. For each animal, at 3, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h after death, a 1 × 1 × 1 cm cube of muscle tissue was removed from the vastus lateralis and triceps brachii. Protein expression levels were analyzed by immunohistochemical examination and immunoblot analysis. The obtained results showed rapid dystrophin degradation, with complete disappearance at 72 h after death. In contrast, desmin-positive fibers and desmin protein bands detected by immunoblot were observed on all 4 days of observation. Our findings suggest the potential use of muscle proteins as biomarkers for estimating the PMI in dogs.
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13
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Pittner S, Merold V, Anders S, Lohner L, Amendt J, Klinger M, Hausmann R, Kissling S, Monticelli F, Geissenberger J, Zissler A, Steinbacher P. A standard protocol for the analysis of postmortem muscle protein degradation: process optimization and considerations for the application in forensic PMI estimation. Int J Legal Med 2022; 136:1913-1923. [PMID: 35710956 PMCID: PMC9576658 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02849-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The analysis of postmortem protein degradation has become of large interest for the estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI). Although several techniques have been published in recent years, protein degradation-based techniques still largely did not exceed basic research stages. Reasons include impractical and complex sampling procedures, as well as highly variable protocols in the literature, making it difficult to compare results. Following a three-step procedure, this study aimed to establish an easily replicable standardized procedure for sampling and processing, and further investigated the reliability and limitations for routine application. Initially, sampling and processing were optimized using a rat animal model. In a second step, the possible influences of sample handling and storage on postmortem protein degradation dynamics were assessed on a specifically developed human extracorporeal degradation model. Finally, the practical application was simulated by the collection of tissue in three European forensic institutes and an international transfer to our forensic laboratory, where the samples were processed and analyzed according to the established protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Pittner
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Veronika Merold
- Department of Environment and Biodiversity, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Sven Anders
- Department of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Larissa Lohner
- Department of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jens Amendt
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Miriam Klinger
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Roland Hausmann
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Cantonal Hospital St, Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Steffen Kissling
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Cantonal Hospital St, Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Fabio Monticelli
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Janine Geissenberger
- Department of Environment and Biodiversity, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Angela Zissler
- Department of Environment and Biodiversity, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Peter Steinbacher
- Department of Environment and Biodiversity, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
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14
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Schmidt VM, Zelger P, Woess C, Pallua AK, Arora R, Degenhart G, Brunner A, Zelger B, Schirmer M, Rabl W, Pallua JD. Application of Micro-Computed Tomography for the Estimation of the Post-Mortem Interval of Human Skeletal Remains. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11081105. [PMID: 35892961 PMCID: PMC9331256 DOI: 10.3390/biology11081105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
It is challenging to estimate the post-mortem interval (PMI) of skeletal remains within a forensic context. As a result of their interactions with the environment, bones undergo several chemical and physical changes after death. So far, multiple methods have been used to follow up on post-mortem changes. There is, however, no definitive way to estimate the PMI of skeletal remains. This research aimed to propose a methodology capable of estimating the PMI using micro-computed tomography measurements of 104 human skeletal remains with PMIs between one day and 2000 years. The present study indicates that micro-computed tomography could be considered an objective and precise method of PMI evaluation in forensic medicine. The measured parameters show a significant difference regarding the PMI for Cort Porosity p < 0.001, BV/TV p > 0.001, Mean1 p > 0.001 and Mean2 p > 0.005. Using a machine learning approach, the neural network showed an accuracy of 99% for distinguishing between samples with a PMI of less than 100 years and archaeological samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena-Maria Schmidt
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstraße 44, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (V.-M.S.); (C.W.); (W.R.)
| | - Philipp Zelger
- University Clinic for Hearing, Voice and Speech Disorders, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Claudia Woess
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstraße 44, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (V.-M.S.); (C.W.); (W.R.)
| | - Anton K. Pallua
- Former Institute for Computed Tomography-Neuro CT, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Rohit Arora
- University Hospital for Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Gerald Degenhart
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Andrea Brunner
- Institute of Pathology, Neuropathology, Molecular Pathology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstrasse 44, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (A.B.); (B.Z.)
| | - Bettina Zelger
- Institute of Pathology, Neuropathology, Molecular Pathology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstrasse 44, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (A.B.); (B.Z.)
| | - Michael Schirmer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinic II, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Walter Rabl
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstraße 44, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (V.-M.S.); (C.W.); (W.R.)
| | - Johannes D. Pallua
- University Hospital for Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
- Correspondence:
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15
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Post-Mortem Interval of Human Skeletal Remains Estimated with Handheld NIR Spectrometry. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11071020. [PMID: 36101401 PMCID: PMC9312135 DOI: 10.3390/biology11071020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI) of human skeletal remains is a critical issue of forensic analysis, with important limitations such as sample preparation and practicability. In this work, NIR spectroscopy (NIRONE® Sensor X; Spectral Engines, 61449, Germany) was applied to estimate the PMI of 104 human bone samples between 1 day and 2000 years. Reflectance data were repeatedly collected from eight independent spectrometers between 1950 and 1550 nm with a spectral resolution of 14 nm and a step size of 2 nm, each from the external and internal bone. An Artificial Neural Network was used to analyze the 66,560 distinct diagnostic spectra, and clearly distinguished between forensic and archaeological bone material: the classification accuracies for PMIs of 0−2 weeks, 2 weeks−6 months, 6 months−1 year, 1 year−10 years, and >100 years were 0.90, 0.94, 0.94, 0.93, and 1.00, respectively. PMI of archaeological bones could be determined with an accuracy of 100%, demonstrating the adequate predictive performance of the model. Applying a handheld NIR spectrometer to estimate the PMI of human skeletal remains is rapid and extends the repertoire of forensic analyses as a distinct, novel approach.
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16
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Systematic Review on Post-Mortem Protein Alterations: Analysis of Experimental Models and Evaluation of Potential Biomarkers of Time of Death. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12061490. [PMID: 35741301 PMCID: PMC9222196 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12061490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI) is a very complex issue due to numerous variables that may affect the calculation. Several authors have investigated the quantitative and qualitative variations of protein expression on post-mortem biological samples in certain time intervals, both in animals and in humans. However, the literature data are very numerous and often inhomogeneous, with different models, tissues and proteins evaluated, such that the practical application of these methods is limited to date. The aim of this paper was to offer an organic view of the state of the art about post-mortem protein alterations for the calculation of PMI through the analysis of the various experimental models proposed. The purpose was to investigate the validity of some proteins as “molecular clocks” candidates, focusing on the evidence obtained in the early, intermediate and late post-mortem interval. This study demonstrates how the study of post-mortem protein alterations may be useful for estimating the PMI, although there are still technical limits, especially in the experimental models performed on humans. We suggest a protocol to homogenize the study of future experimental models, with a view to the next concrete application of these methods also at the crime scene.
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17
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Ortiz-Herrero L, Uribe B, Armas LH, Alonso ML, Sarmiento A, Irurita J, Alonso RM, Maguregui MI, Etxeberria F, Bartolomé L. Estimation of the post-mortem interval of human skeletal remains using Raman spectroscopy and chemometrics. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 329:111087. [PMID: 34736052 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.111087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
An important demand exists in the field of forensic analysis to objectively determine the post-mortem interval (PMI) when human skeletal remains are discovered. It is widely known that bones undergo different chemical and physical processes after death, mainly due to their interaction with the environment in which they are found, although it is not known exactly what these processes consist of. Multiple techniques have been used so far to follow up these and other post-mortem changes and thus establish the time elapsed since the individual's death, but they present important drawbacks in terms of reliability and accuracy. The aim of this research was to propose an analytical methodology capable of determining the PMI by using non-destructive Raman spectroscopy measurements of human skeletal remains. The recorded Raman spectra provided valuable and potentially useful information from which a multivariate study was performed by means of orthogonal partial least squares regression (OPLSR) in order to correlate the PMI with the detected spectral modifications. A collection of 53 real human skeletal remains with known PMI (15 years ≤ PMI ≤ 87 years) was analysed and used for building and validating the OPLS model. The PMI of 10 out of 14 validation samples could be determined with an accuracy error of less than 30%, demonstrating the adequate predictive performance of the OPLS model even in spite of the large inter-individual variability it handled. This opens up the possibility of applying the OPLS model in combination with non-destructive techniques to the determination of the PMI of human skeletal remains that have been buried in conditions similar or equal to those of cemetery niches and in a geographic location with a Mediterranean climate, which is an important achievement for forensic medicine and anthropology.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Ortiz-Herrero
- Analytical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena S/N, 48940 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - B Uribe
- Analytical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena S/N, 48940 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - L Hidalgo Armas
- Advances Research Facilities (SGIker), Martina Casiano Technology Platform, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena S/N, 48940 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - M L Alonso
- Analytical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena S/N, 48940 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - A Sarmiento
- Advances Research Facilities (SGIker), Coupled Multispectroscopy Singular Laboratory (Raman-LASPEA), Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena S/N, 48940 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - J Irurita
- Department of Legal Medicine, Toxicology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de la Salud, Av. de la Investigación 11, 18016 Granada, Spain.
| | - R M Alonso
- Analytical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena S/N, 48940 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - M I Maguregui
- Painting Department, Faculty of Fine Arts, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena S/N, 48940 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - F Etxeberria
- Department of Physical Anthropology, Aranzadi Science Society, Zorroagagaina 11, 20014 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain; Department of Legal and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Paseo Dr. J. Beguiristain 105, 20014 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain.
| | - L Bartolomé
- Advances Research Facilities (SGIker), Martina Casiano Technology Platform, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena S/N, 48940 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
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18
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Sangwan A, Singh SP, Singh P, Gupta OP, Manas A, Gupta S. Role of molecular techniques in PMI estimation: An update. J Forensic Leg Med 2021; 83:102251. [PMID: 34592482 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2021.102251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The time frames between death and reporting of the cadaver, known as post Mortem interval (PMI), is essential in investigation of homicide deaths, suspicious deaths, or other untimely deaths as well as natural deaths. Such information helps to connect the missing links in homicide or other relevant cases. Over the time several methods are developed which depends upon factors as several methods physiological, biochemical, entomological, and archaeological for the estimation of degradation of body with time. These methods lack precision, require expertise to achieve worthy results or authentic estimate. Although these methods are currently in use but, these evaluations are still unreliable and imprecise. Hence, we still need new methods for better estimation of PMI. Initially, the predictable morphological and chemical changes in cadaver are used as PMI indicators but, as the time since death increases, the above methods become less useful for as they can't pin point the time of death rather give a ballpark idea. With the advent of the field of molecular biology, the estimation of PMI is proposed to be executed by evaluating the degradation pattern of the biological markers (DNA, RNA, and Proteins). It is now proved that the DNA is fairly unwavering over long post-mortem phases, RNA is much more labile in nature, and sensitive to degradation in a tissue-specific manner. Thus, the main purpose (aim, agenda) of this document is to provide review that mainly focuses on potential use of RNA markers in estimation of PMI. For this Critical Review, the systematic evaluation of 47 studies is executed according to the chosen inclusion and exclusion criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amita Sangwan
- Department of Oral Pathology & Microbiology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Saurabh Pratap Singh
- Department of Oral Pathology & Microbiology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Prerna Singh
- Department of Oral Pathology & Microbiology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - O P Gupta
- Department of General Surgery, Career Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Abhigyan Manas
- Department of General Surgery, Career Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Shalini Gupta
- Department of Oral Pathology & Microbiology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India.
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19
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Bone Diagenesis in Short Timescales: Insights from an Exploratory Proteomic Analysis. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10060460. [PMID: 34071025 PMCID: PMC8224596 DOI: 10.3390/biology10060460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The evaluation of bone diagenetic phenomena in archaeological timescales has a long history; however, little is known about the origins of the microbes driving bone diagenesis, nor about the extent of bone diagenesis in short timeframes-such as in forensic contexts. Previously, the analysis of non-collagenous proteins (NCPs) through bottom-up proteomics revealed the presence of potential biomarkers useful in estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI). However, there is still a great need for enhancing the understanding of the diagenetic processes taking place in forensic timeframes, and to clarify whether proteomic analyses can help to develop better models for estimating PMI reliably. To address these knowledge gaps, we designed an experiment based on whole rat carcasses, defleshed long rat bones, and excised but still-fleshed rat limbs, which were either buried in soil or exposed on a clean plastic surface, left to decompose for 28 weeks, and retrieved at different time intervals. This study aimed to assess differences in bone protein relative abundances for the various deposition modalities and intervals. We further evaluated the effects that extrinsic factors, autolysis, and gut and soil bacteria had on bone diagenesis via bottom-up proteomics. Results showed six proteins whose abundance was significantly different between samples subjected to either microbial decomposition (gut or soil bacteria) or to environmental factors. In particular, muscle- and calcium-binding proteins were found to be more prone to degradation by bacterial attack, whereas plasma and bone marrow proteins were more susceptible to exposure to extrinsic agents. Our results suggest that both gut and soil bacteria play key roles in bone diagenesis and protein decay in relatively short timescales, and that bone proteomics is a proficient resource with which to identify microbially-driven versus extrinsically-driven diagenesis.
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Abstract
Proteomics, the large-scale study of all proteins of an organism or system, is a powerful tool for studying biological systems. It can provide a holistic view of the physiological and biochemical states of given samples through identification and quantification of large numbers of peptides and proteins. In forensic science, proteomics can be used as a confirmatory and orthogonal technique for well-built genomic analyses. Proteomics is highly valuable in cases where nucleic acids are absent or degraded, such as hair and bone samples. It can be used to identify body fluids, ethnic group, gender, individual, and estimate post-mortem interval using bone, muscle, and decomposition fluid samples. Compared to genomic analysis, proteomics can provide a better global picture of a sample. It has been used in forensic science for a wide range of sample types and applications. In this review, we briefly introduce proteomic methods, including sample preparation techniques, data acquisition using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and data analysis using database search, spectral library search, and de novo sequencing. We also summarize recent applications in the past decade of proteomics in forensic science with a special focus on human samples, including hair, bone, body fluids, fingernail, muscle, brain, and fingermark, and address the challenges, considerations, and future developments of forensic proteomics.
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21
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Mickleburgh HL, Schwalbe EC, Bonicelli A, Mizukami H, Sellitto F, Starace S, Wescott DJ, Carter DO, Procopio N. Human Bone Proteomes before and after Decomposition: Investigating the Effects of Biological Variation and Taphonomic Alteration on Bone Protein Profiles and the Implications for Forensic Proteomics. J Proteome Res 2021; 20:2533-2546. [PMID: 33683123 PMCID: PMC8155572 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.0c00992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
![]()
Bone proteomic studies
using animal proxies and skeletonized human
remains have delivered encouraging results in the search for potential
biomarkers for precise and accurate post-mortem interval (PMI) and
the age-at-death (AAD) estimation in medico-legal investigations.
The development of forensic proteomics for PMI and AAD estimation
is in critical need of research on human remains throughout decomposition,
as currently the effects of both inter-individual biological differences
and taphonomic alteration on the survival of human bone protein profiles
are unclear. This study investigated the human bone proteome in four
human body donors studied throughout decomposition outdoors. The effects
of ageing phenomena (in vivo and post-mortem) and
intrinsic and extrinsic variables on the variety and abundancy of
the bone proteome were assessed. Results indicate that taphonomic
and biological variables play a significant role in the survival of
proteins in bone. Our findings suggest that inter-individual and inter-skeletal
differences in bone mineral density (BMD) are important variables
affecting the survival of proteins. Specific proteins survive better
within the mineral matrix due to their mineral-binding properties.
The mineral matrix likely also protects these proteins by restricting
the movement of decomposer microbes. New potential biomarkers for
PMI estimation and AAD estimation were identified. Future development
of forensic bone proteomics should include standard measurement of
BMD and target a combination of different biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley L Mickleburgh
- Department of Cultural Sciences, Linnaeus University, Kalmar 352 52, Sweden.,Forensic Anthropology Center, Texas State University, San Marcos 78666, Texas, United States
| | - Edward C Schwalbe
- Forensic Science Research Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Ellison Building, Northumbria University Newcastle, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, U. K
| | - Andrea Bonicelli
- Forensic Science Research Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Ellison Building, Northumbria University Newcastle, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, U. K
| | - Haruka Mizukami
- Forensic Science Research Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Ellison Building, Northumbria University Newcastle, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, U. K
| | - Federica Sellitto
- Forensic Science Research Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Ellison Building, Northumbria University Newcastle, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, U. K
| | - Sefora Starace
- Dipartimento di Chimica, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria 7, 10125 Turin, Italy
| | - Daniel J Wescott
- Forensic Anthropology Center, Texas State University, San Marcos 78666, Texas, United States
| | - David O Carter
- Forensic Sciences Unit, School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Chaminade University of Honolulu, Honolulu 96816, Hawaii, United States
| | - Noemi Procopio
- Forensic Science Research Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Ellison Building, Northumbria University Newcastle, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, U. K
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22
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Evaluation of Parameters for Estimating the Postmortem Interval of Skeletal Remains Using Bovine Femurs: A Pilot Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10121066. [PMID: 33317185 PMCID: PMC7764391 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10121066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The postmortem interval (PMI) of victims is a key parameter in criminal investigations. However, effective methods for estimating the PMI of skeletal remains have not been established because it is determined by various factors, including environmental conditions. To identify effective parameters for estimating the PMI of skeletal remains, we investigated the change in bone focusing on the amount of DNA, element concentrations, and bone density that occurred in the bone samples of bovine femurs, each maintained under one of five simulated environmental conditions (seawater, freshwater, underground, outdoors, and indoors) for 1 year. The amount of extracted mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA; 404 bp fragment) decreased over time, and significant DNA degradation (p < 0.01), as estimated by a comparison with amplification results for a shorter fragment (128 bp), was detected between 1 month and 3 months. Eleven of 30 elements were detected in samples by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry, and Na and Ba showed significant quantitative differences in terms of environmental conditions and time (p < 0.01). This preliminary study suggests that the level of DNA degradation determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and element concentrations determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission may be useful indices for estimating the PMI of victims under a wide range of environmental conditions. However, this study is a limited experimental research and not applicable to forensic cases as it is. Further studies of human bone with longer observation periods are required to verify these findings and to establish effective methods for PMI estimation.
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23
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Zissler A, Stoiber W, Steinbacher P, Geissenberger J, Monticelli FC, Pittner S. Postmortem Protein Degradation as a Tool to Estimate the PMI: A Systematic Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:E1014. [PMID: 33256203 PMCID: PMC7760775 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10121014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: We provide a systematic review of the literature to evaluate the current research status of protein degradation-based postmortem interval (PMI) estimation. Special attention is paid to the applicability of the proposed approaches/methods in forensic routine practice. Method: A systematic review of the literature on protein degradation in tissues and organs of animals and humans was conducted. Therefore, we searched the scientific databases Pubmed and Ovid for publications until December 2019. Additional searches were performed in Google Scholar and the reference lists of eligible articles. Results: A total of 36 studies were included. This enabled us to consider the degradation pattern of over 130 proteins from 11 different tissues, studied with different methods including well-established and modern approaches. Although comparison between studies is complicated by the heterogeneity of study designs, tissue types, methods, proteins and outcome measurement, there is clear evidence for a high explanatory power of protein degradation analysis in forensic PMI analysis. Conclusions: Although only few approaches have yet exceeded a basic research level, the current research status provides strong evidence in favor of the applicability of a protein degradation-based PMI estimation method in routine forensic practice. Further targeted research effort towards specific aims (also addressing influencing factors and exclusion criteria), especially in human tissue will be required to obtain a robust, reliable laboratory protocol, and collect sufficient data to develop accurate multifactorial mathematical decomposition models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Zissler
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (A.Z.); (W.S.); (P.S.); (J.G.)
| | - Walter Stoiber
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (A.Z.); (W.S.); (P.S.); (J.G.)
| | - Peter Steinbacher
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (A.Z.); (W.S.); (P.S.); (J.G.)
| | - Janine Geissenberger
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (A.Z.); (W.S.); (P.S.); (J.G.)
| | - Fabio C. Monticelli
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
| | - Stefan Pittner
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
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24
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Na JY. Estimation of the post-mortem interval using microRNA in the bones. J Forensic Leg Med 2020; 75:102049. [PMID: 32861958 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2020.102049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can be useful in forensic science because of their numerous characteristics, especially stability. Post-mortem interval (PMI) is crucial for death scene investigations. However, estimating PMI is challenging in cases involving significantly decomposed or destroyed bodies, such as those involving skeletonized remains. In this study, 71 bones (patella) were collected from the bodies during autopsies (PMI ranging from 1 day to 2 years). As the let-7e and miR-16 miRNAs were used as internal controls for the bone tissue in previous studies, these miRNAs were selected as targets to estimate PMI. The miRNA Ce_miR-39_1 was used as a spike-in internal control to normalize the target miRNA levels. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was performed to correlate the expression levels of let-7e and miR-16 with increasing PMI. A negative correlation was observed between miRNA expression and increasing PMI. The expression of both let-7e and miR-16 was observed to be significantly different between group A and the other PMI groups (group A < 1 month; 1 month < group B < 3 months; 3 months < group C < 6 months; group D > 6 months). In conclusion, these data suggest that the expression level of specific miRNAs (let-7e and miR-16) in the bone tissue could be used to estimate PMI. However, more studies using long-term PMI samples are required to further corroborate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joo-Young Na
- Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-ro, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan, 50612, Republic of Korea.
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25
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Hasap L, Chotigeat W, Pradutkanchana J, Vongvatcharanon U, Kitpipit T, Thanakiatkrai P. A novel, 4-h DNA extraction method for STR typing of casework bone samples. Int J Legal Med 2020; 134:461-471. [PMID: 31897668 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-019-02232-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Bones are often found in mass grave crime scene. To increase DNA identification success rates, a highly efficient DNA extraction method should be selected. Several DNA extraction methods for human bones have been published yet never been systematically compared, and some are time-consuming or complex. As such, a quick and highly efficient DNA extraction method was developed and compared with three published methods (Hi-Flow silica-based, total demineralization (TD) and PrepFiler BTA) using 70 fresh and 22 casework bones from different body parts. The highest median DNA concentrations were obtained from developed method (135.85 ng/μL and 0.224 ng/μL for fresh and casework bones, respectively). For residual PCR inhibitors, the threshold cycle (Ct) of the internal positive control (IPC) showed that developed method and PrepFiler BTA removed most PCR inhibitors. Similarly, 95.45% of casework STR profiles obtained using the developed protocol meet the standard requirements for Australian National Criminal Investigative DNA Database (NCIDD) entry, followed by 86.35% using TD, 81.82% using PrepFiler BTA, and 45.45% using Hi-Flow. Additionally, DNA extracts from seven different bones revealed that the 1st distal phalange of the hand contained the highest DNA concentration of 338.43 ng/μL, which was three times higher than the tibia and femur. Our findings suggest that developed method was highly efficient for casework bone analysis. It significantly reduced the extraction processing time down to 4 h and is two to four times cheaper compared with other methods. In practice, both the extraction method and the bone sampling must be considered by a forensic DNA analyst to increase the chances of successful identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Hasap
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, 90112, Thailand
| | - Wilaiwan Chotigeat
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, 90112, Thailand
| | - Jintana Pradutkanchana
- Forensic Medicine and Toxicology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, 90112, Thailand
| | - Uraporn Vongvatcharanon
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, 90112, Thailand
| | - Thitika Kitpipit
- Forensic Science Program, Department of Applied Science, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, 90112, Thailand
| | - Phuvadol Thanakiatkrai
- Forensic Science Program, Department of Applied Science, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, 90112, Thailand.
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26
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Kuwayama K, Nariai M, Miyaguchi H, Iwata YT, Kanamori T, Tsujikawa K, Yamamuro T, Segawa H, Abe H, Iwase H, Inoue H. Estimation of day of death using micro-segmental hair analysis based on drug use history: a case of lidocaine use as a marker. Int J Legal Med 2018; 133:117-122. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-018-1939-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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27
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Prieto-Bonete G, Pérez-Cárceles MD, Maurandi-López A, Pérez-Martínez C, Luna A. Association between protein profile and postmortem interval in human bone remains. J Proteomics 2018; 192:54-63. [PMID: 30145274 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2018.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Proteomic techniques in bones forensic samples are increasingly, being applied. The main aim of forensic sciences is the estimation of postmortem interval. Most current techniques are useful for the first post-mortem stages. However, in the case of osseous remains, these techniques may be difficult to use due to the high level of decomposition of the sample. Our objective was to attempt to know whether there is a protein profile in human bone remains that would enable a late postmortem. interval ranging from 5 to 20 years postmortem to be estimated. A total of 40 femur bones from 40 different cadavers (data range 5-20 years) were use. Of the 275 total proteins, we excluded the circulating ones (n = 227), leaving a total of 48 proteins (29 structural and 19 functional) were found. A multiple correspondence analysis was applied on the 48 proteins. Finally selecting 32 proteins that allowed us to discriminate between the. two groups of postmortem interval. Analysis of the protein profile present in bone permits an approximation of the date of death within the studied interval, and could be used to complement other tests for estimating the postmortem interval.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Antonio Maurandi-López
- Department of Didactics of Mathematical and Social Sciences, University of Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Aurelio Luna
- Department of Legal and Forensic Medicine, University of Murcia, Spain
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28
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Sarabia J, Pérez-Martínez C, Hernández Del Rincón JP, Luna A. Study of chemiluminescence measured by luminometry and its application in the estimation of postmortem interval of bone remains. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2018; 33:32-35. [PMID: 29751277 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2018.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A substantial challenge faced by forensic medicine is determining the postmortem interval (PMI) of skeletonized remains. Currently, the luminol method is of limited forensic usefulness, since it uses qualitative and subjective methods to estimate PMI by the naked eye assessing the degree of chemiluminescence (CL) emitted by bone remains, a technique which is not sensitive enough to distinguish between historical or forensically significant time intervals. The aim of the present study was to use a direct and accurate measurement of the CL by luminol technique in relative light units (RLU) using a luminometer to establish this method as a possible complementary and low cost tool for the determination of the PMI for distinguishing between remains of medical-legal (<20 years) and historical (≥20 years) interest in 102 femur remains with a range of PMI between 15 and 64 years. The results suggest that, under favorable conditions, the luminol technique can detect haemoglobin in the bone in a PMI range of 0-65 years, finding significant differences in the CL intensity among samples with PMI < 20 years and PMI ≥ 20 years. In addition, the intensities of CL measured at 10 s, 15 s and 20 s after reaction with luminol show a statistically significant inverse relationship with PMI in the bone studied, following a decreasing logarithmic model. The conclusion is that this quantitative, objective and contrastable technique could be very useful for determining the PMI in bone remains, since it allows a good degree of precision and eliminates the subjectivity introduced by qualitative techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Sarabia
- Department of Legal and Forensic Medicine, University of Murcia, Spain
| | | | | | - Aurelio Luna
- Department of Legal and Forensic Medicine, University of Murcia, Spain
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