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Zeng K, Du J, Chen YZ, Wang DY, Sun ML, Li YZ, Wang DY, Liu SH, Zhu XM, Lv P, Du Z, Liu K, Yao J. Metabolomics efficiently discriminates monozygotic twins in peripheral blood. Int J Legal Med 2024:10.1007/s00414-024-03269-1. [PMID: 38858273 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-024-03269-1] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Monozygotic (MZ) twins cannot be distinguished using conventional forensic STR typing because they present identical STR genotypings. However, MZ twins do not always live in the same environment and often have different dietary and other lifestyle habits. Metabolic profiles are deyermined by individual characteristics and are also influenced by the environment in which they live. Therefore, they are potential markers capable of identifying MZ twins. Moreover, the production of proteins varies from organism to organism and is influenced by both the physiological state of the body and the external environment. Hence, we used metabolomics and proteomics to identify metabolites and proteins in peripheral blood to discriminate MZ twins. We identified 1749 known metabolites and 622 proteins in proteomic analysis. The metabolic profiles of four pairs of MZ twins revealed minor differences in intra-MZ twins and major differences in inter-MZ twins. Each pair of MZ twins exhibited distinct characteristics, and four metabolites-methyl picolinate, acesulfame, paraxanthine, and phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid-were observed in all four MZ twin pairs. These four differential exogenous metabolites conincidently show that the different external environments and life styles can be well distinguished by metabolites, considering that twins do not all have the same eating habits and living environments. Moreover, MZ twins showed different protein profiles in serum but not in whole blood. Thus, our results indicate that differential metabolites provide potential biomarkers for the personal identification of MZ twins in forensic medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo Zeng
- School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, No.77, Puhe Road, Shenbei New District, Shenyang, 110122, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, P.R. China
- China Medical University Center of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, P.R. China
- Institute of Evidence Law and Forensic Science, China University of Political Science and Law, Beijing, China
| | - Jiang Du
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Yun-Zhou Chen
- School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, No.77, Puhe Road, Shenbei New District, Shenyang, 110122, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, P.R. China
- China Medical University Center of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Dan-Yang Wang
- School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, No.77, Puhe Road, Shenbei New District, Shenyang, 110122, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, P.R. China
- China Medical University Center of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Mao-Ling Sun
- School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, No.77, Puhe Road, Shenbei New District, Shenyang, 110122, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, P.R. China
- China Medical University Center of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Yu-Zhang Li
- School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, No.77, Puhe Road, Shenbei New District, Shenyang, 110122, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, P.R. China
- China Medical University Center of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Dong-Yi Wang
- School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, No.77, Puhe Road, Shenbei New District, Shenyang, 110122, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, P.R. China
- China Medical University Center of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Shu-Han Liu
- School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, No.77, Puhe Road, Shenbei New District, Shenyang, 110122, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, P.R. China
- China Medical University Center of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Xiu-Mei Zhu
- School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, No.77, Puhe Road, Shenbei New District, Shenyang, 110122, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, P.R. China
- China Medical University Center of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Peng Lv
- School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, No.77, Puhe Road, Shenbei New District, Shenyang, 110122, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, P.R. China
- China Medical University Center of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Zhe Du
- School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, No.77, Puhe Road, Shenbei New District, Shenyang, 110122, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, P.R. China
- China Medical University Center of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Kun Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China.
| | - Jun Yao
- School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, No.77, Puhe Road, Shenbei New District, Shenyang, 110122, P.R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, P.R. China.
- China Medical University Center of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, P.R. China.
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2
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Gent L, Chiappetta ME, Hesketh S, Palmowski P, Porter A, Bonicelli A, Schwalbe EC, Procopio N. Bone Proteomics Method Optimization for Forensic Investigations. J Proteome Res 2024; 23:1844-1858. [PMID: 38621258 PMCID: PMC11077585 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.4c00151] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The application of proteomic analysis to forensic skeletal remains has gained significant interest in improving biological and chronological estimations in medico-legal investigations. To enhance the applicability of these analyses to forensic casework, it is crucial to maximize throughput and proteome recovery while minimizing interoperator variability and laboratory-induced post-translational protein modifications (PTMs). This work compared different workflows for extracting, purifying, and analyzing bone proteins using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS)/MS including an in-StageTip protocol previously optimized for forensic applications and two protocols using novel suspension-trap technology (S-Trap) and different lysis solutions. This study also compared data-dependent acquisition (DDA) with data-independent acquisition (DIA). By testing all of the workflows on 30 human cortical tibiae samples, S-Trap workflows resulted in increased proteome recovery with both lysis solutions tested and in decreased levels of induced deamidations, and the DIA mode resulted in greater sensitivity and window of identification for the identification of lower-abundance proteins, especially when open-source software was utilized for data processing in both modes. The newly developed S-Trap protocol is, therefore, suitable for forensic bone proteomic workflows and, particularly when paired with DIA mode, can offer improved proteomic outcomes and increased reproducibility, showcasing its potential in forensic proteomics and contributing to achieving standardization in bone proteomic analyses for forensic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Gent
- School
of Law and Policing, Research Centre for Field Archaeology and Forensic
Taphonomy, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Elena Chiappetta
- School
of Law and Policing, Research Centre for Field Archaeology and Forensic
Taphonomy, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, United Kingdom
- Department
of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences (DiBEST), University of Calabria, Arcavacata
di Rende 87036, Italy
| | - Stuart Hesketh
- School
of Medicine, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, United Kingdom
| | - Pawel Palmowski
- NUPPA
Facility, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1
7RU, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Porter
- NUPPA
Facility, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1
7RU, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Bonicelli
- School
of Law and Policing, Research Centre for Field Archaeology and Forensic
Taphonomy, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, United Kingdom
| | - Edward C. Schwalbe
- Department
of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1
8ST, United Kingdom
| | - Noemi Procopio
- School
of Law and Policing, Research Centre for Field Archaeology and Forensic
Taphonomy, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, United Kingdom
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3
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Gerra MC, Dallabona C, Cecchi R. Epigenetic analyses in forensic medicine: future and challenges. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:701-719. [PMID: 38242965 PMCID: PMC11003920 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-024-03165-8] [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: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
The possibility of using epigenetics in forensic investigation has gradually risen over the last few years. Epigenetic changes with their dynamic nature can either be inherited or accumulated throughout a lifetime and be reversible, prompting investigation of their use across various fields. In forensic sciences, multiple applications have been proposed, such as the discrimination of monozygotic twins, identifying the source of a biological trace left at a crime scene, age prediction, determination of body fluids and tissues, human behavior association, wound healing progression, and determination of the post-mortem interval (PMI). Despite all these applications, not all the studies considered the impact of PMI and post-sampling effects on the epigenetic modifications and the tissue-specificity of the epigenetic marks.This review aims to highlight the substantial forensic significance that epigenetics could support in various forensic investigations. First, basic concepts in epigenetics, describing the main epigenetic modifications and their functions, in particular, DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA, with a particular focus on forensic applications, were covered. For each epigenetic marker, post-mortem stability and tissue-specificity, factors that should be carefully considered in the study of epigenetic biomarkers in the forensic context, have been discussed. The advantages and limitations of using post-mortem tissues have been also addressed, proposing directions for these innovative strategies to analyze forensic specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carla Gerra
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area Delle Scienze 11a, Viale Delle Scienze 11a, 43124, Parma, PR, Italy
| | - Cristina Dallabona
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area Delle Scienze 11a, Viale Delle Scienze 11a, 43124, Parma, PR, Italy.
| | - Rossana Cecchi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Via Antonio Gramsci 14, 43126, Parma, PR, Italy
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4
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Brown CO, Westring CG, Danielson PB, Legg KM. Saliva identification in forensic samples by automated microextraction and intact mass analysis of statherin. J Forensic Sci 2024; 69:640-650. [PMID: 38173363 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.15445] [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: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The enzyme α-amylase has long been a commonly targeted protein in serological tests for saliva. While being especially abundant in saliva, α-amylase is detectable in vaginal secretions, sweat, fecal matter, breast milk and other matrices. As a result, assays for α-amylase only provide a presumptive indication of saliva. The availability of mass spectrometry-based tools for the detection of less abundant, but more specific, protein targets (e.g., human statherin) has enabled the development of high confidence assays for human saliva. Sample throughput, however, has traditionally been low due to multi-step workflows for protein extraction, quantitation, enzymatic digestion, solid phase cleanup, and nano-/capillary-based chromatography. Here, we present two novel "direct" single-stage extraction strategies for sample preparation. These feature immunoaffinity purification and reversed-phase solid-phase microextraction in conjunction with intact mass analysis of human statherin for saliva identification. Mass analysis was performed on the Thermo Scientific Q-Exactive™ Orbitrap mass spectrometer with a 10-min analytical run time. Data analysis was performed using Byos® from Protein Metrics. Two sample sets were analyzed with a population of 20 individuals to evaluate detection reliability. A series of casework-type samples were then assayed to evaluate performance in an authentic forensic context. Statherin was confidently identified in 92% and 71% of samples extracted using the immunoaffinity purification and solid phase microextraction approaches, respectively. Overall, immunoaffinity purification outperformed the solid phase microextraction, especially with complex mixtures. In toto, robotic extraction and intact mass spectrometry enable the reliable identification of trace human saliva in a variety of sample types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine O Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Christian G Westring
- Center for Crime and Forensics, Purdue University Northwest, Hammond, Indiana, USA
| | - Phillip B Danielson
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
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5
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Gilbert C, Bathany K, Claverol S, Scanvion Q, Hedouin V, Bertrand B, Tokarski C. Successive Protein Extraction Using Hydroxylamine to Increase the Depth of Proteome Coverage in Fresh, Forensic, and Archaeological Bones. Anal Chem 2024; 96:3247-3252. [PMID: 38349005 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c02803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Proteomics is continually being applied to a wider range of applications, now including the analysis of archaeological samples and anatomical specimens, particularly collagen-containing tissues such as bones and teeth. Here, we present the application of a chemical digestion-based proteomics sample preparation protocol to the analysis of fresh, anatomical, and archaeological samples. We describe and discuss two protocols: one that uses hydroxylamine as an additional step of the proteomic workflow, applied to the insoluble fraction, and another that applies hydroxylamine directly on demineralized bones and teeth. We demonstrate the additional information that can be extracted using both protocols, including an increase in the sequence coverage and number of peptides detected in modern and archaeological samples and an increase in the number of proteins identified in archaeological samples. By targeting research related to collagens or extracellular matrix proteins, the use of this protocol will open new insights, considering both fresh and ancient mineralized samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Gilbert
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, CBMN, UMR 5248, F-33600 Pessac, France
- Proteome Platform, Université de Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Katell Bathany
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, CBMN, UMR 5248, F-33600 Pessac, France
- Proteome Platform, Université de Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Quentin Scanvion
- Université de Lille, CHU Lille, Institut de Médecine Légale, EA 7367 UTML - Unité de Taphonomie Médico-Légale, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Valery Hedouin
- Université de Lille, CHU Lille, Institut de Médecine Légale, EA 7367 UTML - Unité de Taphonomie Médico-Légale, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Benoit Bertrand
- Université de Lille, CHU Lille, Institut de Médecine Légale, EA 7367 UTML - Unité de Taphonomie Médico-Légale, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Caroline Tokarski
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, CBMN, UMR 5248, F-33600 Pessac, France
- Proteome Platform, Université de Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
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6
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Euteneuer J, Moitinho-Silva L, Courts C. Forensically relevant anatomical brain regions cannot be sub-differentiated by RNA expression analysis. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2024:10.1007/s12024-024-00787-7. [PMID: 38294632 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-024-00787-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
The contextualization of biological traces generated by severe head injuries can be beneficial for criminal investigations. Here we aimed to identify and validate mRNA candidates for a robust sub-differentiation of forensically and traumatologically relevant brain regions. To this purpose, massively parallel sequencing of whole transcriptomes in sample material taken from four different areas of the cerebral cortex (frontal, temporal, parietal, occipital lobe) was performed, followed by bioinformatical data analysis, classification, and biostatistical candidate selection. Candidates were evaluated by Multiplex-RT-PCR and capillary electrophoresis. Only a weak relative upregulation and solely for candidates expressed in the parietal lobe was observed. Two candidates with upregulation in the cerebellar region (PVALB and CDR2L) were chosen for further investigation; however, PVALB could not reliably and repeatedly be detected in any lobe whereas CDR2L was detectable in all lobes. Consequently, we suggest that differences in mRNA expression between four regions of the cerebral cortex are too small and less pronounced to be useful for and applicable in forensic RNA analysis. We conclude that sub-differentiation of these brain regions via RNA expression analysis is generally not feasible within a forensic scope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Euteneuer
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Strasse 12, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Cornelius Courts
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Strasse 12, 24105, Kiel, Germany.
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital of Köln, Melatengürtel 60/62, 50823, Cologne, Germany.
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7
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Huang W, Zhao S, Liu H, Pan M, Dong H. The Role of Protein Degradation in Estimation Postmortem Interval and Confirmation of Cause of Death in Forensic Pathology: A Literature Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1659. [PMID: 38338938 PMCID: PMC10855206 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031659] [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: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
It is well known that proteins are important bio-macromolecules in human organisms, and numerous proteins are widely used in the clinical practice, whereas their application in forensic science is currently limited. This limitation is mainly attributed to the postmortem degradation of targeted proteins, which can significantly impact final conclusions. In the last decade, numerous methods have been established to detect the protein from a forensic perspective, and some of the postmortem proteins have been applied in forensic practice. To better understand the emerging issues and challenges in postmortem proteins, we have reviewed the current application of protein technologies at postmortem in forensic practice. Meanwhile, we discuss the application of proteins in identifying the cause of death, and postmortem interval (PMI). Finally, we highlight the interpretability and limitations of postmortem protein challenges. We believe that utilizing the multi-omics method can enhance the comprehensiveness of applying proteins in forensic practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weisheng Huang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13 Hangkong Road, Hankou, Wuhan 430030, China; (W.H.)
| | - Shuquan Zhao
- Faculty of Forensic Pathology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China;
| | - Huine Liu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13 Hangkong Road, Hankou, Wuhan 430030, China; (W.H.)
| | - Meichen Pan
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13 Hangkong Road, Hankou, Wuhan 430030, China; (W.H.)
| | - Hongmei Dong
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13 Hangkong Road, Hankou, Wuhan 430030, China; (W.H.)
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8
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Liu Y, Fan J, Zhang M, Liu Z, Wang J, Liu J, Li Z, Yang F, Zhang G. A human identification system for hair shaft using RNA polymorphism. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2023; 67:102929. [PMID: 37611365 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2023.102929] [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: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Hair is one of the common pieces of evidence at crime scenes, with abundant mitochondrial DNA but limited nuclear DNA in its shaft. It also helps to narrow the investigation scope to maternal lineage but fails to provide unique individual information. We assumed that RNA in hair shafts would be an alternative resource used to perform human identification based on the facts that (1) RNA retains the polymorphic information; (2) the multi-copy of RNA in a cell resists degradation as compared to the one-copy of nuclear DNA. In this study, we explored the potential of RNA polymorphism in hair shafts for forensic individual identification. A SNaPshot typing system was constructed using 18 SNPs located on 11 genes (ABCA13, AHNAK, EXPH5, KMT2D, KRT35, PPP1R15A, RBM33, S100A5, TBC1D4, TMC5, TRPV2). The RNA typing system was evaluated for sensitivity, species specificity, and feasibility for aged hair samples. Hair samples from a Shanxi population in China were used for the population study of the system. The detection limit of the assay was 2 ng RNA. The CDP of these 11 genes was 0.999969 in the Shanxi population. We also identified the concordance of the RNA and DNA typing results. In summary, we developed an RNA typing method to perform human identification from hair shafts, which performed as accurately as nuclear DNA typing. Our method provides a potential basis for solving the human identification problem from hair shafts, as well as other biological materials that lack nuclear DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Liu
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong 030619, Shanxi, China
| | - Jiajia Fan
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong 030619, Shanxi, China
| | - Mingming Zhang
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong 030619, Shanxi, China
| | - Zidong Liu
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong 030619, Shanxi, China
| | - Jiaqi Wang
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong 030619, Shanxi, China
| | - Jinding Liu
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong 030619, Shanxi, China
| | - Zeqin Li
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong 030619, Shanxi, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing 100038, China.
| | - Gengqian Zhang
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong 030619, Shanxi, China.
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9
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Zavatski S, Dubkov S, Gromov D, Bandarenka H. Comparative Study of SERS-Spectra of NQ21 Peptide on Silver Particles and in Gold-Coated "Nanovoids". BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:895. [PMID: 37754129 PMCID: PMC10526949 DOI: 10.3390/bios13090895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
The NQ21 peptide has relatively recently attracted attention in the biomedical sphere due to its prospects for facilitating the engineering of the HIV1 vaccine and ELISA test. Today, there is still a need for a reliable and fast methodology that reveals the secondary structure of this analyte at the low concentrations conventionally used in vaccines and immunological assays. The present research determined the differences between the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectra of NQ21 peptide molecules adsorbed on solid SERS-active substrates depending on their geometry and composition. The ultimate goal of our research was to propose an algorithm and SERS-active material for structural analysis of peptides. Phosphate buffer solutions of the 30 µg/mL NQ21 peptide at different pH levels were used for the SERS measurements, with silver particles on mesoporous silicon and gold-coated "nanovoids" in macroporous silicon. The SERS analysis of the NQ21 peptide was carried out by collecting the SERS spectra maps. The map assessment with an originally developed algorithm resulted in defining the effect of the substrate on the secondary structure of the analyte molecules. Silver particles are recommended for peptide detection if it is not urgent to precisely reveal all the characteristic bands, because they provide greater enhancement but are accompanied by analyte destruction. If the goal is to carefully study the secondary structure and composition of the peptide, it is better to use SERS-active gold-coated "nanovoids". Objective results can be obtained by collecting at least three 15 × 15 maps of the SERS spectra of a given peptide on substrates from different batches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siarhei Zavatski
- Applied Plasmonic Laboratory, Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radioelectronics, 220013 Minsk, Belarus;
| | - Sergey Dubkov
- Institute of Advanced Materials and Technologies, National Research University of Electronic Technology, Moscow 124498, Russia; (S.D.)
| | - Dmitry Gromov
- Institute of Advanced Materials and Technologies, National Research University of Electronic Technology, Moscow 124498, Russia; (S.D.)
- Institute for Bionic Technologies and Engineering, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Hanna Bandarenka
- Applied Plasmonic Laboratory, Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radioelectronics, 220013 Minsk, Belarus;
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10
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Brockbals L, Garrett-Rickman S, Fu S, Ueland M, McNevin D, Padula MP. Estimating the time of human decomposition based on skeletal muscle biopsy samples utilizing an untargeted LC-MS/MS-based proteomics approach. Anal Bioanal Chem 2023; 415:5487-5498. [PMID: 37423904 PMCID: PMC10444689 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-023-04822-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Accurate estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI) is crucial in forensic medico-legal investigations to understand case circumstances (e.g. narrowing down list of missing persons or include/exclude suspects). Due to the complex decomposition chemistry, estimation of PMI remains challenging and currently often relies on the subjective visual assessment of gross morphological/taphonomic changes of a body during decomposition or entomological data. The aim of the current study was to investigate the human decomposition process up to 3 months after death and propose novel time-dependent biomarkers (peptide ratios) for the estimation of decomposition time. An untargeted liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry-based bottom-up proteomics workflow (ion mobility separated) was utilized to analyse skeletal muscle, collected repeatedly from nine body donors decomposing in an open eucalypt woodland environment in Australia. Additionally, general analytical considerations for large-scale proteomics studies for PMI determination are raised and discussed. Multiple peptide ratios (human origin) were successfully proposed (subgroups < 200 accumulated degree days (ADD), < 655 ADD and < 1535 ADD) as a first step towards generalised, objective biochemical estimation of decomposition time. Furthermore, peptide ratios for donor-specific intrinsic factors (sex and body mass) were found. Search of peptide data against a bacterial database did not yield any results most likely due to the low abundance of bacterial proteins within the collected human biopsy samples. For comprehensive time-dependent modelling, increased donor number would be necessary along with targeted confirmation of proposed peptides. Overall, the presented results provide valuable information that aid in the understanding and estimation of the human decomposition processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lana Brockbals
- Centre for Forensic Science, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Samara Garrett-Rickman
- Centre for Forensic Science, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Shanlin Fu
- Centre for Forensic Science, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Maiken Ueland
- Centre for Forensic Science, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Dennis McNevin
- Centre for Forensic Science, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Matthew P Padula
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia.
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11
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Sansoucy M, Naud JF. Using Proteins As Markers for Anabolic Steroid Abuse: A New Perspective in Doping Control? Chem Res Toxicol 2023; 36:1168-1173. [PMID: 37561919 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.3c00166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Drug toxicity is a major concern and has motivated numerous studies to elucidate specific adverse mechanisms, with acetaminophen being the favorite candidate in toxicology studies. Conversely, androgenic anabolic steroids (AASs) also represent a severe public health issue in sports for elite and non-elite athletes. Supraphysiological dosages of AASs are associated with various adverse effects, from cardiovascular to neurological repercussions including liver dysfunction. Yet, few studies have addressed the toxicity of anabolic steroids, and a significant amount of work will be needed to elucidate and understand steroid toxicity properly. This Perspective suggests ideas on how proteomics and liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS/MS) can contribute to (1) pinpoint serum proteins affected by substantial doses of anabolic steroids that would represent interesting novel candidates for routine testing and (2) provide additional knowledge on androgenic anabolic steroid toxicity to help raise awareness on the harmful effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Sansoucy
- Laboratoire de contrôle du dopage, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, 531 Boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Jean-François Naud
- Laboratoire de contrôle du dopage, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, 531 Boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada
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12
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Johnston E, Buckley M. Age-Related Changes in Post-Translational Modifications of Proteins from Whole Male and Female Skeletal Elements. Molecules 2023; 28:4899. [PMID: 37446562 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28134899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the key questions in forensic cases relates to some form of age inference, whether this is how old a crime scene is, when in time a particular crime was committed, or how old the victim was at the time of the crime. These age-related estimations are currently achieved through morphological methods with varying degrees of accuracy. As a result, biomolecular approaches are considered of great interest, with the relative abundances of several protein markers already recognized for their potential forensic significance; however, one of the greatest advantages of proteomic investigations over genomics ones is the wide range of post-translational modifications (PTMs) that make for a complex but highly dynamic resource of information. Here, we explore the abundance of several PTMs including the glycosylation, deamidation, and oxidation of several key proteins (collagen, fetuin A, biglycan, serum albumin, fibronectin and osteopontin) as being of potential value to the development of an age estimation tool worthy of further evaluation in forensic contexts. We find that glycosylations lowered into adulthood but deamidation and oxidation increased in the same age range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Johnston
- School of Natural Sciences, Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester M1 7DN, UK
| | - Michael Buckley
- School of Natural Sciences, Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester M1 7DN, UK
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13
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Toma L, Vignali G, Maffioli E, Tambuzzi S, Giaccari R, Mattarozzi M, Nonnis S, Milioli M, Franceschetti L, Paredi G, Negri A, Riccardi B, Cattaneo C, Careri M, Tedeschi G, Bruno S. Mass spectrometry-based proteomic strategy for ecchymotic skin examination in forensic pathology. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6116. [PMID: 37059833 PMCID: PMC10104867 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32520-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics has recently attracted the attention from forensic pathologists. This work is the first report of the development of a shotgun bottom-up proteomic approach based on rapid protein extraction and nano-liquid chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry applied to full-thickness human skin for the differential analysis of normal and ecchymotic tissues to identify new biomarkers for bruise characterization and dating. We identified around 2000 proteins from each pooled extract. The method showed excellent precision on independent replicates, with Pearson correlation coefficients always higher than 95%. Glycophorin A, a known biomarker of vital wounds from immunochemical studies, was identified only in ecchymotic tissues, as confirmed by Western blotting analysis. This finding suggests that this protein can be used as a MS-detectable biomarker of wound vitality. By focusing on skin samples from individuals with known wound dating, besides Glycophorin A, other proteins differentially expressed in ecchymotic samples and dependant on wound age were identified, although further analysis on larger datasets are needed to validate these findings. This study paves the way for an in-depth investigation of the potential of MS-based techniques for wound examination in forensic pathology, overcoming the limitations of immunochemical assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Toma
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Giulia Vignali
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Maffioli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Stefano Tambuzzi
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Giaccari
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Monica Mattarozzi
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124, Parma, Italy.
| | - Simona Nonnis
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy.
- CRC Innovation for Well-Being and Environment (I-WE), University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Marco Milioli
- Department of Pharmacokinetic, Biochemistry and Metabolism, Global Research and Preclinical Development, Chiesi Farmaceutici Spa, 43122, Parma, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Franceschetti
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Paredi
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Armando Negri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Benedetta Riccardi
- Department of Pharmacokinetic, Biochemistry and Metabolism, Global Research and Preclinical Development, Chiesi Farmaceutici Spa, 43122, Parma, Italy
| | - Cristina Cattaneo
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Careri
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Gabriella Tedeschi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
- CRC Innovation for Well-Being and Environment (I-WE), University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Bruno
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, 43124, Parma, Italy
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14
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Liu Z, Simayijiang H, Wang Q, Yang J, Sun H, Wu R, Yan J. DNA and protein analyses of hair in forensic genetics. Int J Legal Med 2023; 137:613-633. [PMID: 36732435 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-02955-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Hair is one of the most common pieces of biological evidence found at a crime scene and plays an essential role in forensic investigation. Hairs, especially non-follicular hairs, are usually found at various crime scenes, either by natural shedding or by forcible shedding. However, the genetic material in hairs is usually highly degraded, which makes forensic analysis difficult. As a result, the value of hair has not been fully exploited in forensic investigations and trials. In recent years, with advances in molecular biology, forensic analysis of hair has achieved remarkable strides and provided crucial clues in numerous cases. This article reviews recent developments in DNA and protein analysis of hair and attempts to provide a comprehensive solution to improve forensic hair analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyong Liu
- Faculty of Forensic Medicine, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Halimureti Simayijiang
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, 030600, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiangwei Wang
- Faculty of Forensic Medicine, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingyi Yang
- Faculty of Forensic Medicine, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongyu Sun
- Faculty of Forensic Medicine, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Province Translational Forensic Medicine Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Riga Wu
- Faculty of Forensic Medicine, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China. .,Guangdong Province Translational Forensic Medicine Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jiangwei Yan
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, 030600, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Fierro-Monti I, Wright JC, Choudhary JS, Vizcaíno JA. Identifying individuals using proteomics: are we there yet? Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:1062031. [PMID: 36523653 PMCID: PMC9744771 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.1062031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Multi-omics approaches including proteomics analyses are becoming an integral component of precision medicine. As clinical proteomics studies gain momentum and their sensitivity increases, research on identifying individuals based on their proteomics data is here examined for risks and ethics-related issues. A great deal of work has already been done on this topic for DNA/RNA sequencing data, but it has yet to be widely studied in other omics fields. The current state-of-the-art for the identification of individuals based solely on proteomics data is explained. Protein sequence variation analysis approaches are covered in more detail, including the available analysis workflows and their limitations. We also outline some previous forensic and omics proteomics studies that are relevant for the identification of individuals. Following that, we discuss the risks of patient reidentification using other proteomics data types such as protein expression abundance and post-translational modification (PTM) profiles. In light of the potential identification of individuals through proteomics data, possible legal and ethical implications are becoming increasingly important in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivo Fierro-Monti
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Juan Antonio Vizcaíno
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, United Kingdom
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16
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Woerner AE, Crysup B, Hewitt FC, Gardner MW, Freitas MA, Budowle B. Techniques for estimating genetically variable peptides and semi-continuous likelihoods from massively parallel sequencing data. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2022; 59:102719. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2022.102719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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17
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Bonicelli A, Di Nunzio A, Di Nunzio C, Procopio N. Insights into the Differential Preservation of Bone Proteomes in Inhumed and Entombed Cadavers from Italian Forensic Caseworks. J Proteome Res 2022; 21:1285-1298. [PMID: 35316604 PMCID: PMC9087355 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.1c00904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Bone is a hard biological tissue and a precious reservoir of information in forensic investigations as it retains key biomolecules commonly used for identification purposes. Bone proteins have recently attracted significant interest for their potential in estimating post-mortem interval (PMI) and age at death (AAD). However, the preservation of such proteins is highly dependent on intrinsic and extrinsic factors that can hinder the potential application of molecular techniques to forensic sciences. The present study aims at investigating the effects that two commonly used types of burial practices (entombment and inhumation) have on bone protein survival. The sample consists of 14 exhumed individuals from cemeteries in Southern Italy with different AADs (29-85 years) and PMIs (1-37 years). LC-MS/MS analyses show that 16 proteins are better preserved under the entombed conditions and 4 proteins are better preserved under the inhumed conditions, whereas no clear differences are detected for post-translational protein modifications. Furthermore, several potential "stable" protein markers (i.e., proteins not affected by the burial environment) are identified for PMI and AAD estimation. Overall, these results show that the two burial environments play a role in the differential preservation of noncollagenous proteins, confirming the potential of LC-MS/MS-based proteomics in forensic sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Bonicelli
- Forensic
Science Research Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Applied
Sciences, Northumbria University, NE1 8ST Newcastle
Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Aldo Di Nunzio
- Chemical
Sciences Department, University of Naples
Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Ciro Di Nunzio
- Legal
Medicine Department, University of Catanzaro
Magna Graecia, 88100 Germaneto, Italy
| | - Noemi Procopio
- Forensic
Science Research Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Applied
Sciences, Northumbria University, NE1 8ST Newcastle
Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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18
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Sijen T, Harbison S. On the Identification of Body Fluids and Tissues: A Crucial Link in the Investigation and Solution of Crime. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1728. [PMID: 34828334 PMCID: PMC8617621 DOI: 10.3390/genes12111728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Body fluid and body tissue identification are important in forensic science as they can provide key evidence in a criminal investigation and may assist the court in reaching conclusions. Establishing a link between identifying the fluid or tissue and the DNA profile adds further weight to this evidence. Many forensic laboratories retain techniques for the identification of biological fluids that have been widely used for some time. More recently, many different biomarkers and technologies have been proposed for identification of body fluids and tissues of forensic relevance some of which are now used in forensic casework. Here, we summarize the role of body fluid/ tissue identification in the evaluation of forensic evidence, describe how such evidence is detected at the crime scene and in the laboratory, elaborate different technologies available to do this, and reflect real life experiences. We explain how, by including this information, crucial links can be made to aid in the investigation and solution of crime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Titia Sijen
- Division Human Biological Traces, Netherlands Forensic Institute, Laan van Ypenburg 6, 2497 GB The Hague, The Netherlands
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - SallyAnn Harbison
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research Limited, Private Bag 92021, Auckland 1142, New Zealand;
- Department of Statistics, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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19
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Goecker ZC, Legg KM, Salemi MR, Herren AW, Phinney BS, McKiernan HE, Parker GJ. Alternative LC-MS/MS Platforms and Data Acquisition Strategies for Proteomic Genotyping of Human Hair Shafts. J Proteome Res 2021; 20:4655-4666. [PMID: 34491751 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.1c00209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Protein is a major component of all biological evidence. Proteomic genotyping is the use of genetically variant peptides (GVPs) that contain single-amino-acid polymorphisms to infer the genotype of matching nonsynonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms for the individual from whom the protein sample originated. This can be used to statistically associate an individual to evidence found at a crime scene. The utility of the inferred genotype increases as the detection of GVPs increases, which is the direct result of technology transfer to mass spectrometry platforms typically available. Digests of single (2 cm) human hair shafts from three European and two African subjects were analyzed using data-dependent acquisition on a Q-Exactive Plus Hybrid Quadrupole-Orbitrap system, data-independent acquisition and a variant of parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) on an Orbitrap Fusion Lumos Tribrid system, and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) on an Agilent 6495 triple quadrupole system. In our hands, average GVP detection from a selected panel of 24 GVPs increased from 6.5 ± 1.1 and 3.1 ± 0.8 using data-dependent and -independent acquisition to 9.5 ± 0.7 and 11.7 ± 1.7 using PRM and MRM (p < 0.05), respectively. PRM resulted in a 1.3-fold increase in detection sensitivity, and MRM resulted in a 1.6-fold increase in detection sensitivity. This increase in biomarker detection has a functional impact on the statistical association of a protein sample and an individual. Increased biomarker sensitivity, using Markov Chain Monte Carlo modeling, produced a median-estimated random match probability of over 1 in 10 trillion from a single hair using targeted proteomics. For PRM and MRM, detected GVPs were validated by the inclusion of stable isotope-labeled peptides in each sample, which served also as a detection trigger. This research accomplishes two aims: the demonstration of utility for alternative analytical platforms in proteomic genotyping and the establishment of validation methods for the evaluation of inferred genotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary C Goecker
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Kevin M Legg
- The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania 19090, United States
| | - Michelle R Salemi
- Proteomics Core Facility, University of California, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Anthony W Herren
- Proteomics Core Facility, University of California, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Brett S Phinney
- Proteomics Core Facility, University of California, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Heather E McKiernan
- The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania 19090, United States
| | - Glendon J Parker
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, California 95616, United States
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