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Dass M, Ghai M. Development of a multiplex PCR assay and quantification of microbial markers by ddPCR for identification of saliva and vaginal fluid. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 362:112147. [PMID: 39067179 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112147] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
The identification of biological fluids at crime scenes contributes to crime scene reconstruction and provides investigative leads. Traditional methods for body fluid identification are limited in terms of sensitivity and are mostly presumptive. Emerging methods based on mRNA and DNA methylation require high quality template source. An exploitable characteristic of body fluids is their distinct microbial profiles allowing for the discrimination of body fluids based on microbiome content. Microbial DNA is highly abundant within the body, robust and stable and can persist in the environment long after human DNA has degraded. 16S rRNA sequencing is the gold standard for microbial analysis; however, NGS is costly, and requires intricate workflows and interpretation. Also, species level resolution is not always achievable. Based on the current challenges, the first objective of this study was to develop a multiplex conventional PCR assay to identify vaginal fluid and saliva by targeting species-specific 16S rRNA microbial markers. The second objective was to employ droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) as a novel approach to quantify bacterial species alone and in a mixture of body fluids. Lactobacillus crispatus and Streptococcus salivarius were selected because of high abundance within vaginal fluid and saliva respectively. While Fusobacterium nucleatum and Gardnerella vaginalis, though present in healthy humans, are also frequently found in oral and vaginal infections, respectively. The multiplex PCR assay detected L. crispatus and G. vaginalis in vaginal fluid while F. nucleatum and S. salivarius was detected in saliva. Multiplex PCR detected F. nucleatum, S. salivarius and L. crispatus in mixed body fluid samples while, G. vaginalis was undetected in mixtures containing vaginal fluid. For samples exposed at room temperature for 65 days, L. crispatus and G. vaginalis were detected in vaginal swabs while only S. salivarius was detected in saliva swabs. The limit of detection was 0.06 copies/µl for F. nucleatum (2.5 ×10-9 ng/µl) and S. salivarius (2.5 ×10-6 ng/µl). L. crispatus and G. vaginalis had detection limits of 0.16 copies/µl (2.5 ×10-4 ng/µl) and 0.48 copies/µl (2.5 ×10-7 ng/µl). All 4 bacterial species were detected in mixtures and aged samples by ddPCR. No significant differences were observed in quantity of bacterial markers in saliva and vaginal fluid. The present research reports for the first time the combination of the above four bacterial markers for the detection of saliva and vaginal fluid and highlights the sensitivity of ddPCR for bacterial quantification in pure and mixed body fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mishka Dass
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal - Westville Campus, Private Bag X 54001, Durban, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa.
| | - Meenu Ghai
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal - Westville Campus, Private Bag X 54001, Durban, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa.
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2
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Mir TUG, Manhas S, Khurshid Wani A, Akhtar N, Shukla S, Prakash A. Alterations in microbiome of COVID-19 patients and its impact on forensic investigations. Sci Justice 2024; 64:81-94. [PMID: 38182316 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
The human microbiome is vital for maintaining human health and has garnered substantial attention in recent years, particularly in the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. Studies have underscored significant alterations in the microbiome of COVID-19 patients across various body niches, including the gut, respiratory tract, oral cavity, skin, and vagina. These changes manifest as shifts in microbiota composition, characterized by an increase in opportunistic pathogens and a decrease in beneficial commensal bacteria. Such microbiome transformations may play a pivotal role in influencing the course and severity of COVID-19, potentially contributing to the inflammatory response. This ongoing relationship between COVID-19 and the human microbiome serves as a compelling subject of research, underscoring the necessity for further investigations into the underlying mechanisms and their implications for patient health. Additionally, these alterations in the microbiome may have significant ramifications for forensic investigations, given the microbiome's potential in establishing individual characteristics. Consequently, changes in the microbiome could introduce a level of complexity into forensic determinations. As research progresses, a more profound understanding of the human microbiome within the context of COVID-19 may offer valuable insights into disease prevention, treatment strategies, and its potential applications in forensic science. Consequently, this paper aims to provide an overarching review of microbiome alterations due to COVID-19 and the associated impact on forensic applications, bridging the gap between the altered microbiome of COVID-19 patients and the challenges forensic investigations may encounter when analyzing this microbiome as a forensic biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahir Ul Gani Mir
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India; State Forensic Science Laboratory, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001, India.
| | - Sakshi Manhas
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Atif Khurshid Wani
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Nahid Akhtar
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Saurabh Shukla
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India.
| | - Ajit Prakash
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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3
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Carratto TMT, Moraes VMS, Recalde TSF, Oliveira MLGD, Teixeira Mendes-Junior C. Applications of massively parallel sequencing in forensic genetics. Genet Mol Biol 2022; 45:e20220077. [PMID: 36121926 PMCID: PMC9514793 DOI: 10.1590/1678-4685-gmb-2022-0077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Massively parallel sequencing, also referred to as next-generation sequencing, has positively changed DNA analysis, allowing further advances in genetics. Its capability of dealing with low quantity/damaged samples makes it an interesting instrument for forensics. The main advantage of MPS is the possibility of analyzing simultaneously thousands of genetic markers, generating high-resolution data. Its detailed sequence information allowed the discovery of variations in core forensic short tandem repeat loci, as well as the identification of previous unknown polymorphisms. Furthermore, different types of markers can be sequenced in a single run, enabling the emergence of DIP-STRs, SNP-STR haplotypes, and microhaplotypes, which can be very useful in mixture deconvolution cases. In addition, the multiplex analysis of different single nucleotide polymorphisms can provide valuable information about identity, biogeographic ancestry, paternity, or phenotype. DNA methylation patterns, mitochondrial DNA, mRNA, and microRNA profiling can also be analyzed for different purposes, such as age inference, maternal lineage analysis, body-fluid identification, and monozygotic twin discrimination. MPS technology also empowers the study of metagenomics, which analyzes genetic material from a microbial community to obtain information about individual identification, post-mortem interval estimation, geolocation inference, and substrate analysis. This review aims to discuss the main applications of MPS in forensic genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thássia Mayra Telles Carratto
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Química, Laboratório de Pesquisas Forenses e Genômicas, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Vitor Matheus Soares Moraes
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Química, Laboratório de Pesquisas Forenses e Genômicas, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Celso Teixeira Mendes-Junior
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Química, Laboratório de Pesquisas Forenses e Genômicas, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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4
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Kumari P, Prakash P, Yadav S, Saran V. Microbiome analysis: An emerging forensic investigative tool. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 340:111462. [PMID: 36155349 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Microbial diversity's potential has been investigated in medical and therapeutic studies throughout the last few decades. However, its usage in forensics is increasing due to its effectiveness in circumstances when traditional approaches fail to provide a decisive opinion or are insufficient in forming a concrete opinion. The application of human microbiome may serve in detecting the type of stains of saliva and vaginal fluid, as well as in attributing the stains to the individual. Similarly, the microbiome makeup of a soil sample may be utilised to establish geographic origin or to associate humans, animals, or things with a specific area, additionally microorganisms influence the decay process which may be used in depicting the Time Since death. Further in detecting the traces of the amount and concentration of alcohol, narcotics, and other forensically relevant compounds in human body or visceral tissues as they also affect the microbial community within human body. Beside these, there is much more scope of microbiomes to be explored in terms of forensic investigation, this review focuses on multidimensional approaches to human microbiomes from a forensic standpoint, implying the potential of microbiomes as an emerging tool for forensic investigations such as individual variability via skin microbiomes, reconstructing crime scene, and linking evidence to individual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallavi Kumari
- Department of Forensic Science, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, India.
| | - Poonam Prakash
- Department of Forensic Science, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, India
| | - Shubham Yadav
- Department of Forensic Science, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, India
| | - Vaibhav Saran
- Department of Forensic Science, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, India
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5
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Integrating the human microbiome in the forensic toolkit: Current bottlenecks and future solutions. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2021; 56:102627. [PMID: 34742094 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2021.102627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Over the last few years, advances in massively parallel sequencing technologies (also referred to next generation sequencing) and bioinformatics analysis tools have boosted our knowledge on the human microbiome. Such insights have brought new perspectives and possibilities to apply human microbiome analysis in many areas, particularly in medicine. In the forensic field, the use of microbial DNA obtained from human materials is still in its infancy but has been suggested as a potential alternative in situations when other human (non-microbial) approaches present limitations. More specifically, DNA analysis of a wide variety of microorganisms that live in and on the human body offers promises to answer various forensically relevant questions, such as post-mortem interval estimation, individual identification, and tissue/body fluid identification, among others. However, human microbiome analysis currently faces significant challenges that need to be considered and overcome via future forensically oriented human microbiome research to provide the necessary solutions. In this perspective article, we discuss the most relevant biological, technical and data-related issues and propose future solutions that will pave the way towards the integration of human microbiome analysis in the forensic toolkit.
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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: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [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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7
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Piana A, Colucci ME, Valeriani F, Marcolongo A, Sotgiu G, Pasquarella C, Margarucci LM, Petrucca A, Gianfranceschi G, Babudieri S, Vitali P, D'Ermo G, Bizzarro A, De Maio F, Vitali M, Azara A, Romano F, Simmaco M, Romano Spica V. Monitoring COVID-19 Transmission Risks by Quantitative Real-Time PCR Tracing of Droplets in Hospital and Living Environments. mSphere 2021; 6:e01070-20. [PMID: 33408231 PMCID: PMC7845593 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.01070-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) environmental contamination occurs through droplets and biological fluids released in the surroundings from patients or asymptomatic carriers. Surfaces and objects contaminated by saliva or nose secretions represent a risk for indirect transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We assayed surfaces from hospital and living spaces to identify the presence of viral RNA and the spread of fomites in the environment. Anthropic contamination by droplets and biological fluids was monitored by detecting the microbiota signature using multiplex quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) on selected species and massive sequencing on 16S amplicons. A total of 92 samples (flocked swabs) were collected from critical areas during the pandemic, including indoor (three hospitals and three public buildings) and outdoor surfaces exposed to anthropic contamination (handles and handrails, playgrounds). Traces of biological fluids were frequently detected in spaces open to the public and on objects that are touched with the hands (>80%). However, viral RNA was not detected in hospital wards or other indoor and outdoor surfaces either in the air system of a COVID hospital but only in the surroundings of an infected patient, in consistent association with droplet traces and fomites. Handled objects accumulated the highest level of multiple contaminations by saliva, nose secretions, and fecal traces, further supporting the priority role of handwashing in prevention. In conclusion, anthropic contamination by droplets and biological fluids is widespread in spaces open to the public and can be traced by qPCR. Monitoring fomites can support evaluation of indirect transmission risks for coronavirus or other flu-like viruses in the environment.IMPORTANCE Several studies have evaluated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in the environment. Saliva and nasopharyngeal droplets can land on objects and surfaces, creating fomites. A suitable indicator would allow the detection of droplets or biofluids carrying the virus. Therefore, we searched for viral RNA and droplets and fomites on at risk surfaces. We monitored by qPCR or next generation sequencing (NGS) droplets through their microbiota. Although the study was performed during the pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 was not significantly found on surfaces, with the only exception of environmental areas near infectious patients. Conversely, anthropic contamination was frequent, suggesting a role for biofluids as putative markers of indirect transmission and risk assessment. Moreover, all SARS-CoV-2-contaminated surfaces showed droplets' microbiota. Fomite monitoring by qPCR may have an impact on public health strategies, supporting prevention of indirect transmission similarly to what is done for other communicable diseases (e.g., influenza and influenza-like infections).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Piana
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Federica Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Laboratory of Epidemiology and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Foro Italico," Rome, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Sotgiu
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Lory Marika Margarucci
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Laboratory of Epidemiology and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Foro Italico," Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Petrucca
- Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gianfranceschi
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Laboratory of Epidemiology and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Foro Italico," Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Babudieri
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Pietro Vitali
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giuseppe D'Ermo
- Department of Surgery "P. Valdoni", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Assunta Bizzarro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Flavio De Maio
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensive and Perioperative Clinics, Section of Microbiology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Azara
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Romano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Laboratory of Epidemiology and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Foro Italico," Rome, Italy
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Giampaoli S, De Vittori E, Frajese G, Paytuví A, Sanseverino W, Anselmo A, Barni F, Berti A. A semi-automated protocol for NGS metabarcoding and fungal analysis in forensic. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 306:110052. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.110052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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9
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A novel loop-mediated isothermal amplification method for identification of four body fluids with smartphone detection. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 45:102195. [PMID: 31835180 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.102195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA profiling for body fluid identification (bfID) is a useful approach to collect contextual information associated with a crime. Current methods require costly fluorescent probes, lengthy amplification protocols and/or time-consuming sample preparation. To simplify this process, we developed a bfID method that has the potential to be rapid in analysis time, inexpensive and fluorescence-free, combining a universal operating procedure with a high-throughout (microwell plate) platform for simultaneous detection of mRNA markers from whole blood, semen, saliva, and vaginal fluid. Full bfID sample preparation and analysis of 23 samples was completed in under 3 h using smart phone optical detection and analysis and show efficacy of the method in a validated blind study. The results provide an efficient, sensitive and specific approach to supplement the current biochemical tests in a forensic laboratory.
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10
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Lactobacillus DNA usage in differentiation of normal vaginal fluids in premenopausal and postmenopausal females. J Forensic Leg Med 2019; 66:58-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2019.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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11
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Environmental microbiology: Perspectives for legal and occupational medicine. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2018; 35:34-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2018.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Giampaoli S, DeVittori E, Valeriani F, Berti A, Romano Spica V. Informativeness of NGS Analysis for Vaginal Fluid Identification. J Forensic Sci 2016; 62:192-196. [PMID: 27907225 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The identification of vaginal fluids in forensic examinations plays an important role in crime scene reconstruction. Molecular detection of vaginal bacterial communities can lead to the correct discrimination of body fluids. These kinds of studies can be performed through multiplex real-time PCR using primers for a specific selection of bacteria. The availability of next-generation sequencing (NGS) protocols provided for the extension of the analysis to evaluate the prokaryotes present in specimens. In this study, DNA was extracted from 18 samples (vaginal, oral, fecal, yoghurt) and analyzed by real-time PCR and NGS. The comparison between the two approaches has demonstrated that the information developed through NGS can augment the more conventional real-time PCR detection of a few key bacterial species to provide a more probative result and the correct identification of vaginal fluid from samples that are more forensically challenged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saverio Giampaoli
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Public Health Unit, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Piazza Lauro De Bosis, 6, 00135, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta DeVittori
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Public Health Unit, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Piazza Lauro De Bosis, 6, 00135, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Public Health Unit, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Piazza Lauro De Bosis, 6, 00135, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Berti
- Reparto Investigazioni Scientifiche di Roma, Carabinieri, Viale di Tor di Quinto, 119, 00191, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Public Health Unit, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Piazza Lauro De Bosis, 6, 00135, Rome, Italy
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13
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Zou KN, Ren LJ, Ping Y, Ma K, Li H, Cao Y, Zhou HG, Wei YL. Identification of vaginal fluid, saliva, and feces using microbial signatures in a Han Chinese population. J Forensic Leg Med 2016; 43:126-131. [PMID: 27570236 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2016.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Revised: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, forensic scientists have focused on the discrimination of body fluids using microbial signatures. In this study, we performed PCR-based detection of microbial signatures of vaginal fluid, saliva, and feces in a Han Chinese population. We investigated the 16S rRNA genes of Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus jensenii, Lactobacillus iners, and Atopobium vaginae in vaginal fluid, the 16S rRNA and the glucosyltransferase enzyme genes of Streptococcus salivarius and Streptococcus mutans in saliva, and the 16S rRNA genes of Enterococcus species, the RNA polymerase β-subunit gene of Bacteroides uniformis and Bacteroides vulgatus, and the α-1-6 mannanase gene of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron in feces. As a result, the detection proportions of L. crispatus, L. gasseri, L. jensenii, L. iners, and A. vaginae were 15/16, 5/16, 8/16, 14/16, and 3/16 in 16 vaginal fluid donors, respectively. L. crispatus and L. jensenii were specifically detected in vaginal fluid; L. gasseri, L. iners, and A. vaginae were also detected in non-vaginal fluid. S. salivarius and S. mutans were not specifically detected in saliva. The detection proportions of Enterococcus species, B. uniformis, B. vulgatus, and B. thetaiotaomicron in 16 feces samples were 16/16, 12/16, 15/16, and 11/16, respectively. B. uniformis and B. thetaiotaomicron were specifically detected in feces. In addition, DNA samples prepared for the identification of body fluid can also be used for individual identification by short tandem repeat typing. The mean detection sensitivities of L. crispatus and L. jensenii were 0.362 and 0.249 pg/uL, respectively. In conclusion, L. crispatus, L. jensenii, B. uniformis, and B. thetaiotaomicron can be used as effective markers for forensic identification of vaginal fluid and feces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Nan Zou
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Evidence and Science Technology, Ministry of Public Security, Institute of Forensic Science, Shanghai Public Security Bureau, Shanghai, 200083, People's Republic of China; Department of Immunology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 2011 Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Forensic Genetics, Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, 100038, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Jie Ren
- The 519th Hospital of the People's Liberation Army, Wenchang, 300457, Hainan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Ping
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Evidence and Science Technology, Ministry of Public Security, Institute of Forensic Science, Shanghai Public Security Bureau, Shanghai, 200083, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Ma
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Crime Scene Evidence, Shanghai Research Institute of Criminal Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200083, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Crime Scene Evidence, Shanghai Research Institute of Criminal Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200083, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Cao
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Evidence and Science Technology, Ministry of Public Security, Institute of Forensic Science, Shanghai Public Security Bureau, Shanghai, 200083, People's Republic of China
| | - Huai-Gu Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Evidence and Science Technology, Ministry of Public Security, Institute of Forensic Science, Shanghai Public Security Bureau, Shanghai, 200083, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yi-Liang Wei
- Department of Immunology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 2011 Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Forensic Genetics, Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, 100038, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Valeriani F, Protano C, Gianfranceschi G, Cozza P, Campanella V, Liguori G, Vitali M, Divizia M, Romano Spica V. Infection control in healthcare settings: perspectives for mfDNA analysis in monitoring sanitation procedures. BMC Infect Dis 2016; 16:394. [PMID: 27507586 PMCID: PMC4977761 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-1714-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Appropriate sanitation procedures and monitoring of their actual efficacy represent critical points for improving hygiene and reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections. Presently, surveillance is based on traditional protocols and classical microbiology. Innovation in monitoring is required not only to enhance safety or speed up controls but also to prevent cross infections due to novel or uncultivable pathogens. In order to improve surveillance monitoring, we propose that biological fluid microflora (mf) on reprocessed devices is a potential indicator of sanitation failure, when tested by an mfDNA-based approach. The survey focused on oral microflora traces in dental care settings. METHODS Experimental tests (n = 48) and an "in field" trial (n = 83) were performed on dental instruments. Conventional microbiology and amplification of bacterial genes by multiple real-time PCR were applied to detect traces of salivary microflora. Six different sanitation protocols were considered. A monitoring protocol was developed and performance of the mfDNA assay was evaluated by sensitivity and specificity. RESULTS Contaminated samples resulted positive for saliva traces by the proposed approach (CT < 35). In accordance with guidelines, only fully sanitized samples were considered negative (100 %). Culture-based tests confirmed disinfectant efficacy, but failed in detecting incomplete sanitation. The method provided sensitivity and specificity over 95 %. CONCLUSIONS The principle of detecting biological fluids by mfDNA analysis seems promising for monitoring the effectiveness of instrument reprocessing. The molecular approach is simple, fast and can provide a valid support for surveillance in dental care or other hospital settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Valeriani
- Unit of Public Health, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Piazza Lauro De Bosis, 6, 00135, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gianfranceschi
- Unit of Public Health, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Piazza Lauro De Bosis, 6, 00135, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Cozza
- Department of Public Health and Cellular Biology, University "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Campanella
- Department of Public Health and Cellular Biology, University "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Hygiene and Epidemiology Chair, University "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Divizia
- Department of Public Health and Cellular Biology, University "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Romano Spica
- Unit of Public Health, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Piazza Lauro De Bosis, 6, 00135, Rome, Italy.
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15
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Improvement and automation of a real-time PCR assay for vaginal fluids. Forensic Sci Int 2016; 262:179-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2016.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Revised: 01/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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16
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Molecular approaches for forensic cell type identification: On mRNA, miRNA, DNA methylation and microbial markers. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2015; 18:21-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2014.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2014] [Revised: 11/15/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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17
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Methylation-sensitive restriction enzyme nested real time PCR, a potential approach for sperm DNA identification. J Forensic Leg Med 2015; 34:34-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2015.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2015] [Revised: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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