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Maiese A, Ciallella C, dell’Aquila M, De Matteis A, Toni C, Scatena A, La Russa R, Mezzetti E, Di Paolo M, Turillazzi E, Frati P, Fineschi V. Cause of Death in Charred Bodies: Reflections and Operational Insights Based on a Large Cases Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:1986. [PMID: 36010336 PMCID: PMC9407296 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12081986] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Our study aims to demonstrate the experience of analyzing fully or partially charred corpses to offer a proper implementation protocol for determining the cause of death. In this study, we present a total of 103 cases obtained from the University of Rome La Sapienza and the University of Pisa archives. All cases were classified based on the extent and severity of burns using a visual method. We divided all cases into two groups. The first group included grade I-II burns (21 cases) without the need for identification. The second group (82 cases) included injuries worse than grade burns II, so all cases were analyzed using an analytical method. For each case, we have documented which of the following analyses have been used and the corresponding findings: inspection, autopsy examination, imaging examination, genetic and toxicological examinations, and histological examination. The results describe the main diagnostic findings and show that only the application of all the above systematic analyses can provide greater accuracy and reliability in describing the causes of death or solving problems, such as identification. In conclusion, we propose an available protocol that defines the main steps of a complete diagnostic pathway that pathologists should follow daily in studying charred bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniello Maiese
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Costantino Ciallella
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano dell’Aquila
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra De Matteis
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Toni
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Scatena
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Raffaele La Russa
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Eleonora Mezzetti
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Di Paolo
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Emanuela Turillazzi
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Wegner A, Ulbricht J, Madea B, Doberentz E. Renal expression of Hsp27, 60, and 70 in cases of fatal hypothermia. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 332:111200. [PMID: 35078040 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Macromorphological findings can be missing in cases of fatal hypothermia when the agonal period is very short because of a large difference between environmental and core body temperatures. Expression of heat shock proteins (Hsps) increases under endogenous and exogenous cellular stresses such as thermal stress. These stress proteins can be revealed by immunohistochemical staining. Forty-five cases of death due to hypothermia and a control group of 100 deaths without any antemortem thermal stress were examined for Hsp27, 60, and 70 expression in renal tissue because renal tissue is sensitive to cellular stress. The results revealed no significant difference between Hsp27, 60, and 70 expression in both groups (28.8% positive staining in the study group and 19.0% positive staining in the control group), which is contradictory to a previous study on expression of Hsp70 in renal tissue in cases of fatal hypothermia. Hence, it is currently unclear whether immunohistochemical staining of Hsps supports a morphological diagnosis of fatal hypothermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Wegner
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Stiftsplatz 12, 53111 Bonn, Germany
| | - J Ulbricht
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Stiftsplatz 12, 53111 Bonn, Germany
| | - B Madea
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Stiftsplatz 12, 53111 Bonn, Germany
| | - E Doberentz
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Stiftsplatz 12, 53111 Bonn, Germany.
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3
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Prangenberg J, Doberentz E, Mawick A, Madea B. Mini Review: The Forensic Value of Heat Shock Proteins. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 8:800100. [PMID: 35083250 PMCID: PMC8785417 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.800100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Forensic pathologists are routinely confronted with unclear causes of death or related findings. In some instances, difficulties arise in relation to questions posed by criminal investigators or prosecutors. Such scenarios may include questions about wound vitality or cause of death where typical or landmark findings are difficult to ascertain. In addition to the usual examinations required to clarify unclear causes of death or address specific questions, immunohistochemistry and genetic analyses have become increasingly important techniques in this area since their establishment last century. Since then, many studies have determined the usefulness and significance of immunohistochemical and genetic investigations on cellular structures and proteins. For example, these proteins include heat shock proteins (Hsp), which were first described in 1962 and are so called based on their molecular weight. They predominantly act as molecular chaperones with cytoprotective functions that support cell survival under (sub) lethal conditions. They are expressed in specific cellular compartments and have many divergent functions. Central family members include, Hsp 27, 60, and 70. This mini review investigates recent research on the Hsp family, their application range, respective forensic importance, and current limitations and provides an outlook on possible applications within forensic science.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elke Doberentz
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Anthea Mawick
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Burkhard Madea
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Zhao LR, Xiao J, Shang Q, Li T, Liu XS, Guan FL. Application of CD83 and HSF5 to Identify Antemortem and Postmortem Skin Burns. FA YI XUE ZA ZHI 2021; 37:627-631. [PMID: 35187913 DOI: 10.12116/j.issn.1004-5619.2020.400401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the forensic application value of cluster of differentiation 83 (CD83) and heat shock transcription factor 5(HSF5) in identifying antemortem and postmortem skin burns. METHODS Through reverse transcription real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), CD83 and HSF5 mRNA levels in the skin tissues of antemortem and postmortem burned mice and human samples were detected quantitatively. RESULTS Compared with the control group and the postmortem burned group, the mRNA levels of CD83 and HSF5 in antemortem burned mice were higher. The high mRNA expressions of CD83 could be detected 96 h after death, and the mRNA expressions of HSF5 could be observed 72 h after death. Compared with undamaged skin, increased CD83 and HSF5 mRNA levels were detected in 11 out of 15 cases(P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS CD83 and HSF5 can be used in forensic practice as indicators for vital reaction in antemortem burn identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long-Rui Zhao
- School of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Jing Xiao
- School of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Qing Shang
- School of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Tao Li
- School of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xin-She Liu
- School of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Fang-Lin Guan
- School of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
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Wegner A, Doberentz E, Madea B. Death in the sauna-vitality markers for heat exposure. Int J Legal Med 2021; 135:903-908. [PMID: 33447890 PMCID: PMC8036176 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-021-02504-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
In sauna-associated deaths, the vitality of heat exposure is of great importance. Two case reports address this. First, we present the case of a 77-year-old man who was found dead in the sauna of his family home. When found, the sauna door was closed, and the sauna indicated a temperature of 78 °C. The body had already begun to decay and was partially mummified when it was found. In the other case, a 73-year-old woman was found dead in the sauna by her husband. In this case, the sauna door was also closed. The sauna was still in operation at a temperature of approximately 70 °C. Epidermal detachments were found. In both autopsies and their follow-up examinations, there were no indications of a cause of death competing with heat shock. The expression of heat shock proteins in kidneys and lungs and the expression of aquaporin 3 in skin were investigated to detect pre-mortal temperature influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Wegner
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Stiftsplatz 12, 53111, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Elke Doberentz
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Stiftsplatz 12, 53111, Bonn, Germany
| | - Burkhard Madea
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Stiftsplatz 12, 53111, Bonn, Germany
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Zhang K, Cheng M, Xu J, Chen L, Li J, Li Q, Xie X, Wang Q. MiR-711 and miR-183-3p as potential markers for vital reaction of burned skin. Forensic Sci Res 2020; 7:503-509. [DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2020.1719454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kaikai Zhang
- Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming Cheng
- Forensic Science Centre of Guangdong Provincial Public Security Department, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingtao Xu
- Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lijian Chen
- Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiahao Li
- Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiangguo Li
- Department of Critical Medicine, Mudan District People’s Hospital, Heze, China
| | - Xiaoli Xie
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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7
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Barranco R, Castiglioni C, Ventura F, Fracasso T. Immunohistochemical expression of P-selectin, SP-A, HSP70, aquaporin 5, and fibronectin in saltwater drowning and freshwater drowning. Int J Legal Med 2019; 133:1461-1467. [PMID: 31222534 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-019-02105-1] [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: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The diagnosis of drowning is one of the most difficult in forensic medicine. The aim of this study was to analyze pulmonary tissue reactions in death by drowning. In particular, we focused on the immunohistochemical expression of P-selectin, SP-A, HSP70, AQP-5, and fibronectin to investigate our expression in drowning and to understand whether there are differences between saltwater drowning (SWD) and freshwater drowning (FWD), which may indicate a different pathophysiology. We retrospectively investigated 10 cases of SWD (Mediterranean Sea) from the Institute of Legal Medicine of Genoa (Italy), and 10 cases of FWD (Lake of Geneva) from the University Center of Legal Medicine of Geneva (Switzerland). As control group, we examined 10 cases of death by acute external bleeding, characterized by minimal respiratory distress. As compared with controls, in SWD cases, the results showed a decrease of SP-A expression with membrane patterns. Furthermore, we observed a greater SP-A expression with granular pattern in drowning cases without statistically significant difference between SWD and FWD. For the markers AQP-5, HSP70, fibronectin, and P-selectin, no statistically significant differences were found between SWD, FWD, and controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Barranco
- Department of Legal and Forensic Medicine, University of Genova, via De' Toni 12, 16132, Genova, Italy.
| | - Claudia Castiglioni
- Centre Universitaire Romand de Médecine Légale, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1206, Geneva, Chemin de la Vulliette 4, 1000, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Ventura
- Department of Legal and Forensic Medicine, University of Genova, via De' Toni 12, 16132, Genova, Italy
| | - Tony Fracasso
- Centre Universitaire Romand de Médecine Légale, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1206, Geneva, Chemin de la Vulliette 4, 1000, Lausanne, Switzerland
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9
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10
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Doberentz E, Madea B. Supravital expression of heat-shock proteins. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 294:10-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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11
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Khajenoori M, Haghighi Asl A. Heat and mass transfer simulation of the human airway for nano-particle water vapor. ACS CHEMICAL HEALTH & SAFETY 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchas.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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12
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Sudden infant death syndrome: no significant expression of heat-shock proteins (HSP27, HSP70). Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2015; 12:33-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s12024-015-9730-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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13
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Doberentz E, Genneper L, Böker D, Lignitz E, Madea B. Expression of heat shock proteins (hsp) 27 and 70 in various organ systems in cases of death due to fire. Int J Legal Med 2014; 128:967-78. [PMID: 24740765 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-014-0994-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The expression of heat shock proteins (hsp) increases in case of variable types of endogenous and exogenous cellular stress, as for example thermal stress. Immunohistochemical staining with hsp antibodies can visualize these stress proteins. Fifty-three cases of death due to heat and a control group of 100 deaths without any antemortem thermic stress were examined regarding hsp27 and hsp70 expression in myocardial, pulmonary, and renal tissues. The results revealed a correlation between hsp expression, survival time, and cause of death. In cases of death due to fire, the expression of hsp is more extensive than in the control group, especially in pulmonary and renal tissues. The immunohistochemical investigation of an hsp expression can support the proof of vitality in cases of death related to fire.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Doberentz
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Bonn, Stiftsplatz 12, 53111, Bonn, Germany,
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Kubo H, Hayashi T, Ago K, Ago M, Kanekura T, Ogata M. Forensic diagnosis of ante- and postmortem burn based on aquaporin-3 gene expression in the skin. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2014; 16:128-34. [PMID: 24508472 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2014.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2013] [Revised: 01/17/2014] [Accepted: 01/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
In order to diagnose death associated with fire, it is essential to show that the person was exposed to heat while still alive. We investigated both AQP1 and AQP3 expression in the skin of an experimental burn model, as well as in forensic autopsy cases, and discuss its role in the differential diagnosis of ante- and postmortem burns. In animal experiments, there was no difference in AQP1 gene expression among four groups (n=4): antemortem burn, postmortem burn, mechanical wound, and control. However, AQP3 expression in the antemortem burn was increased significantly compared with that of the other groups even at 5min after burn. Water content of the skin was decreased significantly by the burn procedure. Consistent with animal experiments, AQP3 gene expression in the skin of antemortem burn cases was increased significantly compared with postmortem burns, mechanical wounds, and controls (n=12 in each group). These observations suggest that dermal AQP3 gene expression was increased to maintain water homeostasis in response to dehydration from burn. Finally, our results suggest that AQP3 gene expression may be useful for forensic molecular diagnosis of antemortem burn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidemichi Kubo
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan; Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan.
| | - Takahito Hayashi
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Ago
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| | - Mihoko Ago
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| | - Takuro Kanekura
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| | - Mamoru Ogata
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
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Maeda H, Ishikawa T, Michiue T. Forensic molecular pathology: its impacts on routine work, education and training. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2014; 16:61-9. [PMID: 24480586 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2014.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2013] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The major role of forensic pathology is the investigation of human death in relevance to social risk management to determine the cause and process of death, especially in violent and unexpected sudden deaths, which involve social and medicolegal issues of ultimate, personal and public concerns. In addition to the identification of victims and biological materials, forensic molecular pathology contributes to general explanation of the human death process and assessment of individual death on the basis of biological molecular evidence, visualizing dynamic functional changes involved in the dying process that cannot be detected by morphology (pathophysiological or molecular biological vital reactions); the genetic background (genomics), dynamics of gene expression (up-/down-regulation: transcriptomics) and vital phenomena, involving activated biological mediators and degenerative products (proteomics) as well as metabolic deterioration (metabolomics), are detected by DNA analysis, relative quantification of mRNA transcripts using real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR), and immunohisto-/immunocytochemistry combined with biochemistry, respectively. Thus, forensic molecular pathology involves the application of omic medical sciences to investigate the genetic basis, and cause and process of death at the biological molecular level in the context of forensic pathology, that is, 'advanced molecular autopsy'. These procedures can be incorporated into routine death investigations as well as guidance, education and training programs in forensic pathology for 'dynamic assessment of the cause and process of death' on the basis of autopsy and laboratory data. Postmortem human data can also contribute to understanding patients' critical conditions in clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Maeda
- Department of Legal Medicine, Osaka City University Medical School, Asahi-machi 1-4-3, Abeno, 545-8585 Osaka, Japan; Forensic Autopsy Section, Medico-legal Consultation and Postmortem Investigation Support Center (MLCPI-SC), c/o Osaka City University Medical School, Asahi-machi 1-4-3, Abeno, 545-8585 Osaka, Japan.
| | - Takaki Ishikawa
- Department of Legal Medicine, Osaka City University Medical School, Asahi-machi 1-4-3, Abeno, 545-8585 Osaka, Japan; Forensic Autopsy Section, Medico-legal Consultation and Postmortem Investigation Support Center (MLCPI-SC), c/o Osaka City University Medical School, Asahi-machi 1-4-3, Abeno, 545-8585 Osaka, Japan; Division of Legal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, 86 Nishi-cho, Yonago, 683-8503 Tottori, Japan
| | - Tomomi Michiue
- Department of Legal Medicine, Osaka City University Medical School, Asahi-machi 1-4-3, Abeno, 545-8585 Osaka, Japan; Forensic Autopsy Section, Medico-legal Consultation and Postmortem Investigation Support Center (MLCPI-SC), c/o Osaka City University Medical School, Asahi-machi 1-4-3, Abeno, 545-8585 Osaka, Japan
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16
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Li S, Zou D, Deng K, Shao Y, Li Z, Luo Y, Sun Q, Xu C, Chen Y, Huang P. Infrared (IR) spectral markers of bronchial epithelia in victims of fatal burns. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2014; 68:165-171. [PMID: 24480271 DOI: 10.1366/13-07189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Changes in the infrared spectra of bronchial epithelia in victims of fatal burns were investigated. The mechanism of spectral changes on the basis of cellular morphological changes was considered. The ability of spectral parameters to diagnose fatal burns was assessed. Ten cases of fatal burns and 20 control cases were selected. Their lung tissues were removed, and sections were cut and mounted on glass and barium fluoride slides. Spectra of polarized bronchial epithelia were obtained by microscopy based on their morphological changes. In the spectra, 16 major absorbance bands were evaluated to determine their ability to act as positive markers for exposure to fire. Compared with the control group, the bronchial epithelia of the fatal burn victims showed three spectral results. (1) The absorbance of 16 major bands from the spectra of polarized bronchial epithelia in fatal burn victims significantly increased. (2) For the same cell number, the absorbance at 2850, 2920, 2959, and 3084 cm(-1) decreased. (3) The degree of increased or decreased absorbance of bands is related to the degree of polarization. These spectral results suggest that there is a vital reaction induced by the inhalation of hot fumes that includes an increase in the number of bronchial epithelia and a polarization effect. Overall, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) microspectroscopy was shown to be a convenient and reliable method to provide objective spectral markers to assist the diagnosis of fatal burns by simultaneously monitoring several specific parameters, although these observations have yet to be applied at forensic scenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiying Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai, 200063, People's Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ping Huang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai, 200063, People's Republic of China
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17
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Milan PM1 induces adverse effects on mice lungs and cardiovascular system. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2012; 2013:583513. [PMID: 23509745 PMCID: PMC3591224 DOI: 10.1155/2013/583513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2012] [Revised: 10/12/2012] [Accepted: 10/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have suggested a link between inhaled particulate matter (PM) exposure and increased mortality and morbidity associated with cardiorespiratory diseases. Since the response to PM1 has not yet been deeply investigated, its impact on mice lungs and cardiovascular system is here examined. A repeated exposure to Milan PM1 was performed on BALB/c mice. The bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALf) and the lung parenchyma were screened for markers of inflammation (cell counts, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α); macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2); heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1); nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells p50 subunit (NFκB-p50); inducible nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS); endothelial-selectin (E-selectin)), cytotoxicity (lactate dehydrogenase (LDH); alkaline phosphatase (ALP); heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70); caspase-8-p18), and a putative pro-carcinogenic marker (cytochrome 1B1 (Cyp1B1)). Heart tissue was tested for HO-1, caspase-8-p18, NFκB-p50, iNOS, E-selectin, and myeloperoxidase (MPO); plasma was screened for markers of platelet activation and clot formation (soluble platelet-selectin (sP-selectin); fibrinogen; plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1)). PM1 triggers inflammation and cytotoxicity in lungs. A similar cytotoxic effect was observed on heart tissues, while plasma analyses suggest blood-endothelium interface activation. These data highlight the importance of lung inflammation in mediating adverse cardiovascular events following increase in ambient PM1 levels, providing evidences of a positive correlation between PM1 exposure and cardiovascular morbidity.
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Estimates of exposure to cold before death from immunohistochemical expression patterns of HSP70 in glomerular podocytes. Int J Legal Med 2012; 127:783-90. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-012-0806-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Hundt W, Schink C, Steinbach S, O'Connell-Rodwell CE, Mayer D, Burbelko M, Kießling A, Guccione S. Use of in vivo bioluminescence and MRI to determine hyperthermia-induced changes in luciferase activity under the control of an hsp70 promoter. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2012; 25:1378-1391. [PMID: 22566294 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.2811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2011] [Revised: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 03/30/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the in vivo effect of hyperthermia on the expression of heat shock proteins and MRI changes in three tumor cell lines. Three tumor cell lines (SCCVII, NIH3T3, M21) were transfected with a plasmid containing the heat shock protein 70 gene (hsp70) promoter fragment and the luciferase reporter gene, and injected into mice. Tumors of 1100 mm³ in size were exposed to five different temperatures (38, 40, 42, 44 and 46 °C) in a water bath. Bioluminescence and MRI were performed at set time intervals. The MRI scan protocol was as follows: T₁-weighted spin echo ± contrast medium, T₂-weighted fast spin echo, dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI, diffusion-weighted stimulated echo acquisition mode sequence, T₂ time obtained on a 1.5T General Electric MRI scanner. Immunoblotting was also performed. hsp70 transcription was strongly induced at 42 and 44 °C, reaching values as high as 8531.5 ± 432.1-fold above baseline in NIH3T3 tumors. At these temperatures, significant increases in the uptake of contrast medium, slope of initial enhancement, Ak(ep) values and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were observed in the 8-h scan of the NIH3T3 cell line. In SCCVII tumors, ADC increased by about 23% (p = 0.010) in the scans performed at 8, 24, 48 and 96 h. At 46 °C, luciferase activity was reduced significantly in the three cell lines. In all tumor types, a significant increase in ADC was observed, which was highest in SCCVII tumors (33.8%; p < 0.01). In accordance with the bioluminescence results, significant Hsp70 protein production was shown by immunoblot analysis. The best correlation coefficient between luciferase activity and immunoblotting results was found for M21 tumors (r = 0.93, p < 0.0001). Different tissue types display distinct patterns of hsp70 transcription. MRI can be used, in combination with optical imaging, to provide information on hsp70 transcription and protein production. The major finding of the present study was that heat-related biochemical changes in tumor tissue can be determined by MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Hundt
- Department of Radiology, Lucas MRS Research Center, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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Wang Q, Ishikawa T, Michiue T, Zhu BL, Maeda H. Evaluation of human brain damage in fire fatality by quantification of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) immunoreactivities. Forensic Sci Int 2011; 211:19-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2011.03.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2010] [Revised: 12/24/2010] [Accepted: 03/27/2011] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Maeda H, Ishikawa T, Michiue T. Forensic biochemistry for functional investigation of death: Concept and practical application. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2011; 13:55-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2010.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2010] [Accepted: 12/23/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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23
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Maeda H, Zhu BL, Ishikawa T, Michiue T. Forensic molecular pathology of violent deaths. Forensic Sci Int 2010; 203:83-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2010.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Bohnert M, Anderson J, Rothschild MA, Böhm J. Immunohistochemical expression of fibronectin in the lungs of fire victims proves intravital reaction in fatal burns. Int J Legal Med 2010; 124:583-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-010-0437-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2009] [Accepted: 02/24/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Time-dependent appearance of intrathrombus neutrophils and macrophages in a stasis-induced deep vein thrombosis model and its application to thrombus age determination. Int J Legal Med 2009; 123:235-40. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-009-0324-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2008] [Accepted: 01/14/2009] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Preuß J, Dettmeyer R, Poster S, Lignitz E, Madea B. The expression of heat shock protein 70 in kidneys in cases of death due to hypothermia. Forensic Sci Int 2008; 176:248-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2007.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2006] [Revised: 08/27/2007] [Accepted: 09/22/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Li PC, Chen WC, Chang LC, Lin SC. Substance P acts via the neurokinin receptor 1 to elicit bronchoconstriction, oxidative stress, and upregulated ICAM-1 expression after oil smoke exposure. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2008; 294:L912-20. [PMID: 18326823 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00443.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to 1) assess whether substance P (SP) acts via neurokinin (NK)-1 and NK-2 receptors to stimulate neurogenic inflammation (indicated by formation of ICAM-1 expression and oxidative stress) following oil smoke exposure (OSE) in rats; and 2) determine if pretreatment with antioxidants ameliorates the deleterious effects of OSE. Rats were pretreated with NK-1 receptor antagonist CP-96345, NK-2 receptor antagonist SR-48968, vitamin C, or catechins. OSE was for 30-120 min. Rats were killed 0-8 h later. Total lung resistance (RL), airway smooth muscle activity (ASMA), lung ICAM-1 expression, neurogenic plasma extravasation (via India ink and Evans blue dye), bronchoalveolar lavage fluid SP concentrations, and reactive oxygen species formation [via lucigenin- and luminal-amplified chemiluminescence (CL)] were assessed. Lung histology was performed. SP concentrations increased significantly in nonpretreated rats following OSE in a dose-dependent manner. RL and total ASMA increased over time after OSE. Vitamin C and catechin pretreatments were associated with significantly reduced lucigenin CL 2 and 4 h after OSE. Pretreatment with catechins significantly reduced luminal CL counts 4 and 8 h after OSE. Evans blue levels were significantly reduced following 60 and 120 min of OSE in catechin- and CP-96345-pretreated rats. ICAM-1 protein expression was significantly decreased in all pretreatment groups after OSE. Thickening of the alveolar capillary membrane, focal hemorrhaging, interstitial pneumonitis, and peribronchiolar inflammation were apparent in OSE lungs. These findings suggest that SP acts via the NK-1 receptor to provoke neurogenic inflammation, oxidative stress, and ICAM-1 expression after OSE in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping-Chia Li
- Dept. of Occupational Therapy, I-Shou Univ., No. 8 E-Da Road, Jiau-Shu Tsuen, Yan-Chau Shiang, Kaohsiung County 824, Tainan City, Republic of China (Taiwan).
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Weis A, Bohnert M. Expression patterns of adhesion molecules P-selectin, von Willebrand factor and PECAM-1 in lungs: A comparative study in cases of burn shock and hemorrhagic shock. Forensic Sci Int 2008; 175:102-6. [PMID: 17597321 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2007.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2007] [Revised: 04/23/2007] [Accepted: 05/20/2007] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
For comparative examination of the pathological findings in burn shock and hemorrhagic shock, histological and immunohistochemical investigations of the lungs were performed. Histological specimens of 30 cases each were examined by means of immunohistological staining with P-selectin, von Willebrand factor (vWF) and PECAM-1. The results showed statistically significant differences between the two groups. There was strong staining for P-selectin (especially in the lumina of the blood vessels) and vWF (especially in the endothelium of medium-sized blood vessels) in the specimens of burn shock fatalities. In cases of rapid death after exposure to fire the strong expression of adhesion molecules, which are mainly responsible for the initial inflammatory reaction of leucocytes and platelets in burn shock, suggests prompt activation of inflammatory cells in the lung tissue. In cases of hemorrhagic shock, this reaction was much less distinct in the early stages. The same is true of the expression of PECAM-1, which was lower in lungs from burn shock fatalities than in those from hemorrhagic shock fatalities. The low expression of PECAM-1 in burn shock is a clue to the migration/diapedesis of leucocytes into the areas of burn damage. In total, the results of the investigation indicate different pathophysiological processes even in the very early stages of burn shock and hemorrhagic shock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Weis
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Albert - Ludwig University Freiburg, Albertstrasse 9, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
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