Proteomic analysis of decedent scalp hair segments exhibiting a postmortem hair root band

From flesh to bones: Multi-omics approaches in forensic science

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.

Use of micro, capillary, and nano liquid chromatography for forensic analysis

The use of micro, capillary, and nano liquid chromatography systems for forensic analysis has excellent potential. In a field where sample size is often limited, several studies have presented the viability of capillary columns with microflow and nanoflow, and when using mass spectrometric analysis limits of detection can be improved. Reduction in flow rates result in significant reduction in operating costs. Recent advances in miniaturized liquid chromatography systems also aim at in-laboratory and on-site detection, which have already been applied to forensic drug cases. This critical review will discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and applicability of microflow and nano liquid chromatography. In this regard, included in this article is a discussion of some promising areas not yet applied to forensic research.