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Ahmad MA, Ghaleb SS, Zaki AR, Kamel AO, Eid A. The role of miRNA-21 and hypoxia inducible factor-1 in predicting post mortem interval in cardiac muscles of aluminum phosphide deaths. J Forensic Leg Med 2024; 106:102726. [PMID: 39094352 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2024.102726] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The assessment of the postmortem interval (PMI) represents one of the major challenges in forensic pathology. Because of their stability, microRNAs, or miRNAs, are anticipated to be helpful in forensic research. OBJECTIVE To see if estimation of PMI is possible using miRNA-21 and Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) expression levels in the heart samples from aluminum phosphide toxicity (Alpt). METHODS This was a cross sectional study on 60 post-mortem samples (heart tissues) collected at different intervals during forensic autopsies. The two groups were allocated equally according to the cause of death into Group I (non-toxicated deaths, n = 30): Deaths caused by other than toxicity, and Group II (toxicated deaths, n = 30): Deaths due to Alpt. MDA (Malondialdehyde) and GSH (Glutathione), were measured in heart tissues using ELIZA. MiRNA- 21and HIF-1α expression levels were measured in heart tissues at different PMI using RT-Q PCR. ROC curve for detection of toxicated deaths using miRNA-21 and HIF was carried out. RESULTS miRNA-21 and HIF-1α expression levels in Alp deaths were up regulated while GSH was downregulated with statistically significant difference. There was positive correlation between miRNA-21, HIF-1α and MDA with PMI while there was negative correlation between GSH and PMI in Alp deaths. In prediction of post mortem interval in Alp deaths miRNA-21 sensitivity and specificity were (75.9 %, 51.7 %, respectively) while HIF-1α sensitivity and specificity were 100 %. CONCLUSION PMI can be calculated using the degree to which particular miRNA-21 and HIF-1α are expressed in the heart tissue. The combination of miRNA-21 with HIF-1α in post mortem estimation is precious indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manar A Ahmad
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 65211, Egypt
| | - Sherien S Ghaleb
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, 11511, Egypt
| | - Amr R Zaki
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 65211, Egypt
| | - Abeer O Kamel
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 65211, Egypt.
| | - Amir Eid
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 65211, Egypt
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Fang S, Dai X, Shi X, Xiao L, Ye Y, Liao L. A pilot study investigating early postmortem interval of rats based on ambient temperature and postmortem interval-related metabolites in blood. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2024; 20:560-568. [PMID: 37266864 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-023-00643-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI), especially the early PMI, plays a key role in forensic practice. Although several studies based on metabolomics approaches have presented significant findings for PMI estimation, most did not examine the effects of ambient temperature. In this study, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC‒MS)‒based metabolomics was adopted to explore the changes in metabolites in the cardiac blood of suffocated rats at various ambient temperatures (5 °C, 15 °C, 25 °C, and 35 °C) from 0 to 24 h after death. Isoleucine, alanine, proline, valine, glycerol, glycerol phosphate, xanthine, and hypoxanthine were found to contribute to PMI in all temperature groups. Hypoxanthine and isoleucine were chosen to establish estimation models (equations) with an interpolation function using PMI as the dependent variable (f(x, y)), relative intensity as the independent variable x, and temperature as the independent variable y. Thereafter, these two models were validated with predictive samples and shown to have potential predictive ability. The findings indicate that isoleucine, alanine, proline, valine, glycerol, glycerol phosphate, xanthine, and hypoxanthine may be significant for PMI estimation at various ambient temperatures. Furthermore, a method to determine PMI based on ambient temperature and PMI-related metabolites was explored, which may provide a basis for future studies and practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyong Fang
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
- School of Forensic Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, Anhui, China
| | - Xinhua Dai
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoling Shi
- School of Forensic Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, Anhui, China
| | - Li Xiao
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yi Ye
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Linchuan Liao
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.
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3
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Weber K, Domènech A, Kegler K, Kreutzer R, Mayoral FJ, Okazaki Y, Ortega P, Polledo L, Razinger T, Richard OK, Sanchez R, Warfving N, Vallejo R, de Miguel R. Onset and progression of postmortem histological changes in the central nervous system of RccHan ™: WIST rats. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1378609. [PMID: 38835889 PMCID: PMC11149423 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1378609] [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: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Death initiates a cascade of physiological and biochemical alterations in organs and tissues, resulting in microscopic changes that challenge the histopathological evaluation. Moreover, the brain is particularly susceptible to artifacts owing to its unique composition and its location within the cranial vault. The aim of this study was to compile and illustrate the microscopic changes in the central nervous system (CNS) of rats subjected to delayed postmortem fixation. It also scrutinizes the influence of exsanguination and cooling methods on the initiation and progression of these alterations. Twenty-four Wistar Han outbred rats (RccHan™: WIST) were sacrificed and stored either at room temperature (18-22°C) or under refrigeration (2-4°C). Necropsies were conducted at different time points postmortem (i.e., 0.5 h, 1 h, 4 h, 8 h, 12 h, 24 h, 36 h, 48 h, 7 days and 14 days). Brain sections underwent simultaneous digital evaluation by 14 pathologists until a consensus was reached on terminology, key findings, and intensity levels. Microscopic observations varied among cell types. Glial cells were similarly affected throughout the CNS and showed pericellular halo, chromatin condensation and nuclear shrinkage. Neurons showed two types of postmortem changes as most of them showed progressive shrinkage, cytoplasmic dissolution and karyorrhexis whereas others acquired a dark-neuron-like appearance. Neuronal changes showed marked differences among neuroanatomical locations. Additional postmortem changes encompassed: granulation and microcavitation in neuropil and white matter; retraction spaces; detachment of ependyma, choroid plexus, and leptomeninges. Severity of findings after 48 h at room temperature was higher than after seven days under refrigeration and similar to or slightly lower than after 14 days under refrigeration. No clear differences were observed related to the sex or weight of the animals or their exsanguination status. This work elucidates the onset and progression of autolytic changes in the brains of Wistar Han rats, offering insights to accurately identify and enhance the histopathological evaluation.
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4
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Sakr MF, El-Khalek AMA, Mohammad NS, Abouhashem NS, Gaballah MH, Ragab HM. Estimation of postmortem interval using histological and oxidative biomarkers in human bone marrow. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2023:10.1007/s12024-023-00753-9. [PMID: 37987965 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-023-00753-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
In forensic medicine, estimating the postmortem interval (PMI) is of great importance for the timeline and the reconstruction of the events surrounding death. Bone marrow (BM) is one of the largest organs in the body, with good resistance to autolysis and contamination. Therefore, the present study aims to correlate different postmortem intervals and bone marrow antioxidant enzyme levels using an Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, detection of the changes in the histological structure of human bone marrow in relation to the time passed since death. BM samples from 20 forensic autopsy cadavers were obtained from cases referred to the Department of Forensic Medicine in the Ministry of Justice, Dakahlia Governorate, processed for histopathological examination as well as estimation of reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and glutathione reductase (GRX) using ELISA. Results of ELISA analysis showed a significant decrease in the level of antioxidant enzymes with increasing PMI; regarding histopathological examination, from 6 to > 18 h PMI, the changes in morphology after death were gradual, progressive, and regular, indicating great value in PMI determination. Also, 18 h of PMI showed loss of cellular details, absence of fat cells, and necrosis of BM with the nucleus dispersed as eosinophilic debris. Estimation of antioxidant enzymes level in human bone marrow using ELISA and detection of the changes in the histological structure of human bone marrow in relation to time passed since the death, either separately or in combination, can be used to estimate PMI accurately.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amal Mohamad Abd El-Khalek
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Nanies Sameeh Mohammad
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Nehal S Abouhashem
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | | | - Hosnia M Ragab
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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Rubio L, Suárez J, Martin-de-las-Heras S, C. Zapico S. Partners in Postmortem Interval Estimation: X-ray Diffraction and Fourier Transform Spectroscopy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076793. [PMID: 37047764 PMCID: PMC10094861 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The postmortem interval (PMI) is difficult to estimate in later stages of decomposition. There is therefore a need to develop reliable methodologies to estimate late PMI. This study aims to assess whether there is a correlation between changes in the mineral composition of human teeth and the estimation of PMI. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy techniques were performed to address this challenge. Forty healthy human teeth obtained from odontological clinics were stored at different times (0, 10, 25, 50 years; N = 10/group). XRD and ATR-FTIR parameters related to the structure and composition of teeth were studied. Our results showed that the crystallinity index, crystal size index, mineral-to-organic matrix ratio (M/M) and carbonate/phosphate ratio (C/P) had the strongest association with PMI. For larger PMIs, there was a significant increase in crystallinity, crystal size and M/M ratio, while the C/P ratio showed a specific decrease with increasing PMI. According to our results, the parameters of crystallinity, crystal size, M/M ratio and C/P ratio can be considered highly accurate in determining a PMI of 10 years of data; crystallinity and mineral maturity can be considered useful in determining a PMI of 25 years; and crystallinity and mineral maturity can be considered highly accurate in determining a PMI of 50 years. A particular XRD index was identified as the most suitable parameter to estimate PMI: crystallinity. The joint use of XRD and ATR-FTIR analyses could be a promising alternative for dating human teeth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Rubio
- Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program, Department of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Tiernan Hall 365, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
- Departamento de Anatomía Humana, Medicina Legal e Historia de la Ciencia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, 29590 Málaga, Spain
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Tiernan Hall 365, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| | - Juan Suárez
- Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program, Department of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Tiernan Hall 365, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
- Departamento de Anatomía Humana, Medicina Legal e Historia de la Ciencia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, 29590 Málaga, Spain
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Tiernan Hall 365, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| | - Stella Martin-de-las-Heras
- Departamento de Anatomía Humana, Medicina Legal e Historia de la Ciencia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, 29590 Málaga, Spain
| | - Sara C. Zapico
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Tiernan Hall 365, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
- Department of Anthropology, NMNH-MRC 112, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
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Du QX, Zhang S, Long FH, Lu XJ, Wang L, Cao J, Jin QQ, Ren K, Zhang J, Huang P, Sun JH. Combining with lab-on-chip technology and multi-organ fusion strategy to estimate post-mortem interval of rat. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 9:1083474. [PMID: 36703889 PMCID: PMC9871555 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1083474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The estimation of post-mortem interval (PMI) is one of the most important problems in forensic pathology all the time. Although many classical methods can be used to estimate time since death, accurate and rapid estimation of PMI is still a difficult task in forensic practice, so the estimation of PMI requires a faster, more accurate, and more convenient method. Materials and methods In this study, an experimental method, lab-on-chip, is used to analyze the characterizations of polypeptide fragments of the lung, liver, kidney, and skeletal muscle of rats at defined time points after death (0, 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, and 30 days). Then, machine learning algorithms (base model: LR, SVM, RF, GBDT, and MLPC; ensemble model: stacking, soft voting, and soft-weighted voting) are applied to predict PMI with single organ. Multi-organ fusion strategy is designed to predict PMI based on multiple organs. Then, the ensemble pruning algorithm determines the best combination of multi-organ. Results The kidney is the best single organ for predicting the time of death, and its internal and external accuracy is 0.808 and 0.714, respectively. Multi-organ fusion strategy dramatically improves the performance of PMI estimation, and its internal and external accuracy is 0.962 and 0.893, respectively. Finally, the best organ combination determined by the ensemble pruning algorithm is all organs, such as lung, liver, kidney, and skeletal muscle. Conclusion Lab-on-chip is feasible to detect polypeptide fragments and multi-organ fusion is more accurate than single organ for PMI estimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu-xiang Du
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, China
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Fei-hao Long
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiao-jun Lu
- Criminal Investigation Detachment, Baotou Public Security Bureau, Baotou, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Liang Wang
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Cao
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Qian-qian Jin
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Kang Ren
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Ji Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Huang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun-hong Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, China
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
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Szeremeta M, Samczuk P, Pietrowska K, Kowalczyk T, Przeslaw K, Sieminska J, Kretowski A, Niemcunowicz-Janica A, Ciborowski M. In Vitro Animal Model for Estimating the Time since Death with Attention to Early Postmortem Stage. Metabolites 2022; 13:metabo13010026. [PMID: 36676951 PMCID: PMC9861157 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13010026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Estimating the postmortem interval (PMI) has remained the subject of investigations in forensic medicine for many years. Every kind of death results in changes in metabolites in body tissues and fluids due to lack of oxygen, altered circulation, enzymatic reactions, cellular degradation, and cessation of anabolic production of metabolites. Metabolic changes may provide markers determining the time since death, which is challenging in current analytical and observation-based methods. The study includes metabolomics analysis of blood with the use of an animal model to determine the biochemical changes following death. LC-MS is used to fingerprint postmortem porcine blood. Metabolites, significantly changing in blood after death, are selected and identified using univariate statistics. Fifty-one significant metabolites are found to help estimate the time since death in the early postmortem stage. Hypoxanthine, lactic acid, histidine, and lysophosphatidic acids are found as the most promising markers in estimating an early postmortem stage. Selected lysophosphatidylcholines are also found as significantly increased in blood with postmortal time, but their practical utility as PMI indicators can be limited due to a relatively low increasing rate. The findings demonstrate the great potential of LC-MS-based metabolomics in determining the PMI due to sudden death and provide an experimental basis for applying this attitude in investigating various mechanisms of death. As we assume, our study is also one of the first in which the porcine animal model is used to establish PMI metabolomics biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Szeremeta
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Paulina Samczuk
- Metabolomics Laboratory, Clinical Research Center, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Karolina Pietrowska
- Metabolomics Laboratory, Clinical Research Center, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Tomasz Kowalczyk
- Metabolomics Laboratory, Clinical Research Center, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Przeslaw
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-328 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Julia Sieminska
- Metabolomics Laboratory, Clinical Research Center, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Adam Kretowski
- Metabolomics Laboratory, Clinical Research Center, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland
| | | | - Michal Ciborowski
- Metabolomics Laboratory, Clinical Research Center, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland
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Application of artificial intelligence and machine learning technology for the prediction of postmortem interval: A systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 340:111473. [PMID: 36166880 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND /PURPOSE Establishing an accurate postmortem interval (PMI) is exceptionally crucial in forensic investigation. Artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine learning (ML) models are widely employed in forensic practice. ML is a part of AI, both terms are highly associated and sometimes used interchangeably. This systematic review aims to evaluate the application and performance of AI technology for the prediction of PMI. METHODS Systematic literature search across different electronic databases using PubMed/Google Scholar/EMBASE/Scopus/CINAHL/Web of Science/Cochrane library was conducted from inception to 3 December 2021 for preclinical and clinical studies reported ML models for PMI estimation. RESULTS We identified 18 studies (12 preclinical and 06 clinical) that met the inclusion criteria in the qualitative analysis. Most of the studies employed supervised learning (N = 15), and others employed unsupervised learning (N = 3). Due to the heterogeneity of the samples, quantitative analysis was not performed. CONCLUSION In this systematic review, we discussed the performance of AI-based automated systems in PMI estimation. ML models have demonstrated accuracy and precision and the ability to overcome human errors and bias. However, the research is limited, conducted in primarily small, selected human populations. In addition, we suggest further research in larger population-based studies is needed to fully understand the extent of integrated ML models.
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9
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Khalifa FN, Hosny SA, Moawad AM. Histobiochemical changes in early postmortem interval in liver, pancreas, skin and kidney of adult male albino rats. Rechtsmedizin (Berl) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00194-022-00565-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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10
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Nusair SD, Ananbeh M, Zayed A, Ahmad MI, Qinna NA. Postmortem sampling time effect on toxicity biomarkers in rats exposed to an acute lethal methomyl dose. Toxicol Rep 2022; 9:1674-1680. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2022.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
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11
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Saber TM, Omran BHF, El Deib MM, El-Sharkawy NI, Metwally MMM, Abd-Elhakim YM. Early postmortem biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical alterations in skeletal muscles of rats exposed to boldenone undecylenate: Forensic implication. J Forensic Leg Med 2021; 83:102248. [PMID: 34478996 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2021.102248] [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] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the biochemical and histopathological alterations along with the immunoexpression pattern of heat shock protein 27 (Hsp27) within 6 h postmortem (PM) in skeletal muscle of boldenone (BOL)-treated rats. Forty-eight male rats were divided into two groups; a control group received sesame oil (0.25 mL/kg bwt), and BOL group received 5 mg/kg bwt BOL. Both treatments were intramuscularly injected once a week for eight weeks. Rats were euthanized by cervical dislocation, and the skeletal muscle specimens were collected at zero-time, 2, 4, and 6 h PM for biochemical and histopathological evaluations. The results revealed that BOL treatment significantly increased pH, MDA, ATP, ADP, glycogen, and hydroxyproline values. Still, it decreased the GPX, GST, and lactic acid levels, and Hsp27 immunoexpression compared to the control group. With increasing postmortem interval (PMI), whether control or BOL-treated, a significant reduction in pH value, markers of muscular antioxidant status, ATP, ADP, glycogen, hydroxyproline levels, as well as Hsp27 immunoexpression but a significant increase in lipid peroxidation and lactic acid content were recorded. Of note, the interaction between BOL treatment and PMI had a significant effect on ATP, ADP, lactic acid, hydroxyproline, GST, MDA, and TAC levels. Conclusively, these findings signify BOL exposure's modifying effect on the energy content, oxidative status, and histological architecture of skeletal muscles in the early PMI that reflected in delaying the onset of rigor mortis. For forensic practitioners, these findings should be highly considered at estimating PMI in athletic, AAS-treated patients, and fattening animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taghred M Saber
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt.
| | - Bothina H F Omran
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Maha M El Deib
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Nabela I El-Sharkawy
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M M Metwally
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Yasmina M Abd-Elhakim
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt.
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12
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Geissenberger J, Ehrenfellner B, Monticelli FC, Pittner S, Steinbacher P. Dismembered porcine limbs as a proxy for postmortem muscle protein degradation. Int J Legal Med 2021; 135:1627-1636. [PMID: 33956198 PMCID: PMC8205874 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-021-02571-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI) is of critical importance in forensic routine. The most frequently applied methods, however, are all restricted to specific time periods or must be excluded under certain circumstances. In the last years it has been shown that the analysis of muscle protein degradation has the potential to contribute to according delimitations in practice. In particular, upon biochemical analysis, the specific time points of degradation events provide reasonable markers for PMI delimitation. Nevertheless, considerable research is yet required to increase the understanding of protein decomposition and how it is affected by individual and environmental influencing factors. This is best investigated under standardized conditions, however, a considerate selection of proxies, regarding costs, effort, and expected outcome is required. Here, we use pigs to compare muscle protein decomposition in whole bodies and dismembered body parts (amputated hind limbs). Not only do experiments on body parts reduce the costs and allow easier handling in basic research, but also they aid to investigate the practical application of PMI estimation in dismembered body parts, or other extensive injuries, which are not unusual scenarios in crime investigation. Specifically, we investigated whether there are differences in the degradation rates of selected muscle proteins, sampled from dismembered legs and from hind limbs attached to whole pig bodies. Our results show distinct time-dependent degradation patterns of muscle proteins in a predictable manner regardless of sample origin. We are able to demonstrate that amputated hind limbs are suitable proxies for the analysis of muscle protein degradation, especially to investigate certain influencing factors and establish according standardized models.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Geissenberger
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Str. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - B Ehrenfellner
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Str. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - F C Monticelli
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Neuropsychiatry, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Stefan Pittner
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Neuropsychiatry, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Peter Steinbacher
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Str. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.
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Mostafa HES, El-Shafei DA, Abouhashem NS, Alaa El-Din EA. Could skeletal muscle changes provide a reliable method for estimating the time since death: A histological, biochemical, and DNA study. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2021.1921272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Heba El-Sayed Mostafa
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Dalia Abdallah El-Shafei
- Department of Community, Environmental & Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Nehal S. Abouhashem
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Eman Ahmed Alaa El-Din
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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14
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Pittner S, Bugelli V, Benbow ME, Ehrenfellner B, Zissler A, Campobasso CP, Oostra RJ, Aalders MCG, Zehner R, Lutz L, Monticelli FC, Staufer C, Helm K, Pinchi V, Receveur JP, Geißenberger J, Steinbacher P, Amendt J. The applicability of forensic time since death estimation methods for buried bodies in advanced decomposition stages. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0243395. [PMID: 33296399 PMCID: PMC7725292 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0243395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Estimation of the postmortem interval in advanced postmortem stages is a challenging task. Although there are several approaches available for addressing postmortem changes of a (human) body or its environment (ecologically and/or biochemically), most are restricted to specific timeframes and/or individual and environmental conditions. It is well known, for instance, that buried bodies decompose in a remarkably different manner than on the ground surface. However, data on how established methods for PMI estimation perform under these conditions are scarce. It is important to understand whether and how postmortem changes are affected under burial conditions, if corrective factors could be conceived, or if methods have to be excluded for respective cases. We present the first multi-methodological assessment of human postmortem decomposition carried out on buried body donors in Europe, at the Amsterdam Research Initiative for Sub-surface Taphonomy and Anthropology (ARISTA) in the Netherlands. We used a multidisciplinary approach to investigate postmortem changes of morphology, skeletal muscle protein decomposition, presence of insects and other necrophilous animals as well as microbial communities (i.e., microbiomes) from August to November 2018 associated with two complete body exhumations and eight partial exhumations. Our results clearly display the current possibilities and limitations of methods for PMI estimation in buried remains and provide a baseline for future research and application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Pittner
- Dept. of Forensic Medicine, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Valentina Bugelli
- Dept. of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - M. Eric Benbow
- Dept. of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Dept. of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | | | - Angela Zissler
- Dept. of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Carlo P. Campobasso
- Dept. of Experimental Medicine, University L. Vanvitelli of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Roelof-Jan Oostra
- Dept. of Medical Biology, Amsterdam UMC – location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maurice C. G. Aalders
- Dept. of Biomedical Engineering and Physics, Amsterdam UMC – location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Richard Zehner
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Lena Lutz
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | - Christian Staufer
- Dept. of Forensic Medicine, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Katharina Helm
- Dept. of Forensic Medicine, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Vilma Pinchi
- Dept. of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Joseph P. Receveur
- Dept. of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | | | | | - Jens Amendt
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
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15
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Zissler A, Stoiber W, Steinbacher P, Geissenberger J, Monticelli FC, Pittner S. Postmortem Protein Degradation as a Tool to Estimate the PMI: A Systematic Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:E1014. [PMID: 33256203 PMCID: PMC7760775 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10121014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: We provide a systematic review of the literature to evaluate the current research status of protein degradation-based postmortem interval (PMI) estimation. Special attention is paid to the applicability of the proposed approaches/methods in forensic routine practice. Method: A systematic review of the literature on protein degradation in tissues and organs of animals and humans was conducted. Therefore, we searched the scientific databases Pubmed and Ovid for publications until December 2019. Additional searches were performed in Google Scholar and the reference lists of eligible articles. Results: A total of 36 studies were included. This enabled us to consider the degradation pattern of over 130 proteins from 11 different tissues, studied with different methods including well-established and modern approaches. Although comparison between studies is complicated by the heterogeneity of study designs, tissue types, methods, proteins and outcome measurement, there is clear evidence for a high explanatory power of protein degradation analysis in forensic PMI analysis. Conclusions: Although only few approaches have yet exceeded a basic research level, the current research status provides strong evidence in favor of the applicability of a protein degradation-based PMI estimation method in routine forensic practice. Further targeted research effort towards specific aims (also addressing influencing factors and exclusion criteria), especially in human tissue will be required to obtain a robust, reliable laboratory protocol, and collect sufficient data to develop accurate multifactorial mathematical decomposition models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Zissler
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (A.Z.); (W.S.); (P.S.); (J.G.)
| | - Walter Stoiber
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (A.Z.); (W.S.); (P.S.); (J.G.)
| | - Peter Steinbacher
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (A.Z.); (W.S.); (P.S.); (J.G.)
| | - Janine Geissenberger
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (A.Z.); (W.S.); (P.S.); (J.G.)
| | - Fabio C. Monticelli
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
| | - Stefan Pittner
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
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16
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Evaluation of time passed since death by examination of oxidative stress markers, histopathological, and molecular changes of major organs in male albino rats. Int J Legal Med 2020; 135:269-280. [PMID: 33237458 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-020-02463-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Recent biochemical, metabolic, and molecular profiles of various body fluids showed more accurate correlation to the postmortem interval than the traditional physical examination. Our study aimed to evaluate time passed since death in relation to oxidative stress markers, HMGB1 genetic expression, histopathological examination, and BCL2 immunohistochemical analysis in major organs (heart, kidney, and testis). Forty-two adult male rats were included and randomly divided into seven equal groups. After sacrification, the rodents were kept at room temperature and major organs were obtained at 0, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h. Malonaldehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH) tissue levels, High mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) gene expression, histopathological, and B cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) immunohistochemical expressions were analyzed. Postmortem interval was correlated to different tissue levels of MDA, SOD, and GSH. HMGB1 showed enhanced postmortem gene expression with a peak at 48 h after death. Obvious time-dependent histopathological changes were observed in all the examined organs. Dilated spaces, extravasation, and fragmentation scores in heart specimens were higher at 96 and 120 h compared with the other groups. Renal changes in the form of shrunken glomeruli, loss of tubular epithelium, and hyalinization and testicular findings in the form of epithelial detachment, vacuolation, and loss of sperms started at 72 h postmortem. BCL2 expression began to decrease 24 h and became negative at 96 h after death. In conclusion, HMGB1 gene expression can be used for estimation of time passed since death as it shows time-dependent changes in the form of a progressive increase with a peak at 48 h then it begins to decline. Oxidants and antioxidants are correlated to PMI until 120 h after death. Histopathological changes in the heart, kidney, and testis are also time-dependent until the 5th day after death. BCL2 immunohistochemical expression begins to decline 24 h until 96 h after death when it becomes negative.
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17
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Sapienza D, Asmundo A, Silipigni S, Barbaro U, Cinquegrani A, Granata F, Barresi V, Gualniera P, Bottari A, Gaeta M. Feasibility Study of MRI Muscles Molecular Imaging in Evaluation of Early Post-Mortem Interval. Sci Rep 2020; 10:392. [PMID: 31942017 PMCID: PMC6962370 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-57357-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Estimating early postmortem interval (EPI) is a difficult task in daily forensic activity due to limitations of accurate and reliable methods. The aim of the present work is to describe a novel approach in the estimation of EPI based on quantitative magnetic resonance molecular imaging (qMRMI) using a pig phantom since post-mortem degradation of pig meat is similar to that of human muscles. On a pig phantom maintained at 20° degree, using a 1.5 T MRI scanner we performed 10 scans (every 4 hours) monitoring apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), fractional anisotropy (FA) magnetization transfer ration (MTR), tractography and susceptibility weighted changes in muscles until 36 hours after death. Cooling of the phantom during the experiment was recorded. Histology was also obtained. Pearson’s Test was carried out for time correlation between post-mortem interval and MRI data. We found a significative inverse correlation between ADC, FA, MT values and PMI. Our preliminary data shows that post-mortem qMRMI is a potential powerful tool in accurately determining EPI and is worth of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Sapienza
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences,and of Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125, Messina, Italy.
| | - Alessio Asmundo
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences,and of Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Silipigni
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences,and of Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Radiological Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Ugo Barbaro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences,and of Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Radiological Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonella Cinquegrani
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences,and of Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Radiological Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Granata
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences,and of Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Radiological Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Valeria Barresi
- Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Evolutive Age, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Patrizia Gualniera
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences,and of Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Bottari
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences,and of Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Radiological Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Michele Gaeta
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences,and of Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Radiological Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Paltian JJ, da Fonseca CAR, Pinz MP, Luchese C, Antunes Wilhelm E. Post-mortem interval estimative through determination of catalase and Δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase activities in hepatic, renal, skeletal muscle and cerebral tissues of Swiss mice. Biomarkers 2019; 24:478-483. [PMID: 31094223 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2019.1619837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: Determining the post-mortem interval (PMI) is one of the challenging tasks in forensic science due to the lack of quick and inexpensive methods. Our objective is to develop innovative and alternative means for PMI evaluation. Methods: The relationship between PMI and enzymatic modifications in mice tissues was described. After being sacrificed, Swiss mice were randomly divided into groups according to the time elapsed since death. The activities of catalase (CAT) and δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase (δ-ALA-D) were determined in hepatic, renal, skeletal muscle and cerebral tissues. Results: CAT activity increased in kidney and brain 6 h after death and this increase remained for up to 24 h in the brain and 48 h in the kidney. δ-ALA-D had its activity decreased in the liver and kidneys in 6 h. In the skeletal muscle, δ-ALA-D activity was reduced only 48 h after death. Conversely, an increase on δ-ALA-D activity was observed in the brain at 6 h, followed by its decrease at 24 and 48 h. Conclusion: With the association of this set of results, it is possible to provide an estimate of PMI. Additionally, these results can be used as an auxiliary parameter associated with other methods to estimate PMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaini J Paltian
- a Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry and Bioprospecting, Research Laboratory in Biochemical Pharmacology (LaFarBio), Research Group on Neurobiotechnology (GPN), Center for Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Food Sciences, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel) , Pelotas , Brazil.,b Bachelor's Degree in Forensic Chemistry , Center for Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Food Sciences, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel) , Pelotas , Brazil
| | - Caren A R da Fonseca
- a Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry and Bioprospecting, Research Laboratory in Biochemical Pharmacology (LaFarBio), Research Group on Neurobiotechnology (GPN), Center for Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Food Sciences, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel) , Pelotas , Brazil.,b Bachelor's Degree in Forensic Chemistry , Center for Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Food Sciences, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel) , Pelotas , Brazil
| | - Mikaela P Pinz
- a Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry and Bioprospecting, Research Laboratory in Biochemical Pharmacology (LaFarBio), Research Group on Neurobiotechnology (GPN), Center for Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Food Sciences, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel) , Pelotas , Brazil
| | - Cristiane Luchese
- a Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry and Bioprospecting, Research Laboratory in Biochemical Pharmacology (LaFarBio), Research Group on Neurobiotechnology (GPN), Center for Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Food Sciences, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel) , Pelotas , Brazil
| | - Ethel Antunes Wilhelm
- a Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry and Bioprospecting, Research Laboratory in Biochemical Pharmacology (LaFarBio), Research Group on Neurobiotechnology (GPN), Center for Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Food Sciences, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel) , Pelotas , Brazil.,b Bachelor's Degree in Forensic Chemistry , Center for Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Food Sciences, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel) , Pelotas , Brazil
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19
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da Fonseca CAR, Paltian J, Dos Reis AS, Bortolatto CF, Wilhelm EA, Luchese C. Na +/K +-ATPase, acetylcholinesterase and glutathione S-transferase activities as new markers of postmortem interval in Swiss mice. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2018; 36:67-72. [PMID: 30415194 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2018.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Determining precisely the postmortem interval (PMI) is a key parameter for forensic researches, given that various physical, biochemical and metabolic changes begin to occur in the body after death. In the present study, the Na+/K+-ATPase, glutathione S-transferase (GST) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities were evaluated. For this, male adult Swiss mice were killed by isoflurane inhalation anesthesia and divided into four groups according to time of death (0, 6, 24 and 48 h). The brain, liver, kidney and skeletal muscle tissues were removed. Our results revealed that at the time of 6 h, there was a decrease on Na+/K+-ATPase and GST activities in the brain and liver tissues, respectively. In addition, at this time point, an increase on renal GST activity was verified. At the time of 24 h, an increase on the cerebral AChE and renal GST activities was observed, while the cerebral Na+/K+-ATPase activity was decreased. Forty-eight hours after death, cerebral Na+/K+-ATPase and renal GST activities remained decreased and increased, respectively. In addition, no alteration was observed on the GST activity in the skeletal muscle and brain (in PMIs evaluated). The present study revealed that the brain and kidney (at the times of 24 and 48 h) were the tissues that suffered the most changes in almost all the enzymes evaluated. Our results demonstrated that enzyme activity assessments are reliable, easy-to-perform and low-cost determinations, and could be promising postmortem markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caren A R da Fonseca
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Bioquímica e Bioprospecção, Laboratório de Pesquisa em Farmacologia Bioquímica (LaFarBio), Grupo de Pesquisa em Neurobiotecnologia (GPN), Centro de Ciências Químicas, Farmacêuticas e de Alimentos, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), CEP 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil; Curso de Bacharelado em Química Forense, Centro de Ciências Químicas, Farmacêuticas e de Alimentos, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), CEP 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Jaini Paltian
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Bioquímica e Bioprospecção, Laboratório de Pesquisa em Farmacologia Bioquímica (LaFarBio), Grupo de Pesquisa em Neurobiotecnologia (GPN), Centro de Ciências Químicas, Farmacêuticas e de Alimentos, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), CEP 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil; Curso de Bacharelado em Química Forense, Centro de Ciências Químicas, Farmacêuticas e de Alimentos, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), CEP 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Angélica S Dos Reis
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Bioquímica e Bioprospecção, Laboratório de Pesquisa em Farmacologia Bioquímica (LaFarBio), Grupo de Pesquisa em Neurobiotecnologia (GPN), Centro de Ciências Químicas, Farmacêuticas e de Alimentos, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), CEP 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Cristiani F Bortolatto
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Bioquímica e Bioprospecção, Laboratório de Pesquisa em Farmacologia Bioquímica (LaFarBio), Grupo de Pesquisa em Neurobiotecnologia (GPN), Centro de Ciências Químicas, Farmacêuticas e de Alimentos, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), CEP 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Ethel A Wilhelm
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Bioquímica e Bioprospecção, Laboratório de Pesquisa em Farmacologia Bioquímica (LaFarBio), Grupo de Pesquisa em Neurobiotecnologia (GPN), Centro de Ciências Químicas, Farmacêuticas e de Alimentos, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), CEP 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil; Curso de Bacharelado em Química Forense, Centro de Ciências Químicas, Farmacêuticas e de Alimentos, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), CEP 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil.
| | - Cristiane Luchese
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Bioquímica e Bioprospecção, Laboratório de Pesquisa em Farmacologia Bioquímica (LaFarBio), Grupo de Pesquisa em Neurobiotecnologia (GPN), Centro de Ciências Químicas, Farmacêuticas e de Alimentos, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), CEP 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil.
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20
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Dai X, Fan F, Ye Y, Lu X, Chen F, Wu Z, Liao L. An experimental study on investigating the postmortem interval in dichlorvos poisoned rats by GC/MS-based metabolomics. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2018; 36:28-36. [PMID: 30326392 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2018.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 09/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI) is always a key issue in forensic science. Although many attempts based on metabolomics approaches have been proven to be feasible and accurate for PMI estimation, there have been no reports regarding the determination of the PMI in acute dichlorvos (DDVP) poisoning. In this study, all rats were killed by acute DDVP poisoning at a dose three fold the oral LD50 (240 mg/kg). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) was applied to investigate the metabolic profiling of blood samples at various times after death up to 72 h. A total of 39 metabolites were found to be associated with PMI, and the combinations of various numbers of metabolites were used to establish support vector regression (SVR) models to investigate the PMI. The SVR model constructed by 23 metabolites had a minimum mean squared error (MSE) of 5.49 h for the training set. Then, the SVR model was validated by prediction set with an MSE of 10.33 h, suggesting good predictive ability of the model for investigating the PMI. The findings demonstrated the great potential of GC/MS-based metabolomics combined with the SVR model in determining the PMI of DDVP poisoned rats and provided an experimental basis for the application of this approach in investigating the PMI of other toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhua Dai
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Fei Fan
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yi Ye
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiang Lu
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Fan Chen
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhigui Wu
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Linchuan Liao
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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21
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Zhang J, Li B, Wang Q, Li C, Zhang Y, Lin H, Wang Z. Characterization of postmortem biochemical changes in rabbit plasma using ATR-FTIR combined with chemometrics: A preliminary study. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2017; 173:733-739. [PMID: 27788472 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2016.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Postmortem interval (PMI) determination is one of the most challenging tasks in forensic medicine due to a lack of accurate and reliable methods. It is especially difficult for late PMI determination. Although many attempts with various types of body fluids based on chemical methods have been made to solve this problem, few investigations are focused on blood samples. In this study, we employed an attenuated total reflection (ATR)-Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) technique coupled with principle component analysis (PCA) to monitor biochemical changes in rabbit plasma with increasing PMI. Partial least square (PLS) model was used based on the spectral data for PMI prediction in an independent sample set. Our results revealed that postmortem chemical changes in compositions of the plasma were time-dependent, and various components including proteins, lipids and nucleic acids contributed to the discrimination of the samples at different time points. A satisfactory prediction within 48h postmortem was performed by the combined PLS model with a good fitting between actual and predicted PMI of 0.984 and with an error of ±1.92h. In consideration of the simplicity and portability of ATR-FTIR, our preliminary study provides an experimental and theoretical basis for application of this technique in forensic practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Zhang
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xian Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Bing Li
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xian Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xian Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chengzhi Li
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xian Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yinming Zhang
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xian Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hancheng Lin
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xian Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhenyuan Wang
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xian Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
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22
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Wang Y, Zhou Z, Tan H, Zhu S, Wang Y, Sun Y, Li XM, Wang JF. Nitrosylation of Vesicular Transporters in Brain of Amyloid Precursor Protein/Presenilin 1 Double Transgenic Mice. J Alzheimers Dis 2016; 55:1683-1692. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-160700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Zhu Zhou
- Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Hua Tan
- Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Shenghua Zhu
- Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Yiran Wang
- Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Yingxia Sun
- Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Xin-Min Li
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Jun-Feng Wang
- Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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