Forensic Applications of the Human Microbiome
Author Information
Author(s): Ricchezze Giulia, Buratti Erika, De Micco Francesco, Cingolani Mariano, Scendoni Roberto
Primary Institution: University of Macerata
Hypothesis
Can the human microbiome be transferred to the environment and used as forensic evidence?
Conclusion
The study highlights the potential of using microbiomes as trace evidence to link individuals to specific environments or objects.
Supporting Evidence
- Microbiome analysis can help identify suspects when DNA is not available.
- Microbial communities can persist on surfaces for up to six months.
- Microbiome transfer can occur between non-cohabitating individuals.
- Environmental factors influence the microbial communities involved in forensic investigations.
- Microbial traces degrade rapidly, making timely collection crucial for forensic use.
Takeaway
Scientists are studying tiny germs on our bodies to help solve crimes, like figuring out who was at a crime scene based on the germs they leave behind.
Methodology
A systematic review of literature was conducted using databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to analyze studies on microbiome transfer.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the limited number of studies and the variability in methodologies used.
Limitations
The review is limited by the small number of studies on environmental transfer and variability in materials used across studies.
Participant Demographics
Studies included volunteers and one study involved human cadavers.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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