Molecular Signatures of Crime: Biomarkers and Biochemical Evidence in Forensic Science
Keywords:
Molecular biomarkers, Forensic science, Biochemical evidence, Human identification, Multi-omicsAbstract
The molecular biomarkers have revolutionized forensic science by providing a powerful tool for the highly sensitive and reliable analysis of biological evidence in criminal investigations. The present review discusses the use of molecular signatures such as genetic, protein, metabolite, micro-biological and body fluid signatures for better forensic identification and evidence interpretation. It is concerned with the use of sophisticated analytical techniques like genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, spectroscopy, chromatography and mass spectrometry to find and characterize forensic samples with accuracy. The review also emphasizes the significance of molecular signatures in the identification of body fluids, estimation of post mortem interval, forensic toxicology, forensic pathology, human identification and crime scene reconstruction. Various challenges in current research, such as degradation of samples, ethical issues and standardisation of analytical protocols, are also discussed. Some innovations that are currently emerging, such as the use of artificial intelligence, the integration of multiple omics technologies, portable forensic technologies, and advanced bioinformatics are highlighted as potential tools to improve forensic investigations. Overall, molecular biomarkers give a solid scientific underpinning to precise forensic science and further enhance the reliability and credibility of modern criminal justice systems.
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