1
|
Fu C, Zhang P, Zou X, Song T. Descriptive analyses of differentially expressed proteins during intrapuparial stage based on the label-free proteomics technique between Chrysomya megacephala and Synthesiomyia nudiseta. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2023; 64:102269. [PMID: 37201397 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2023.102269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The lack of rapid and accurate species identification methods on pupae restricts the practical application of forensic entomology. It is a new idea to construct portable and rapid identification kits based on the principle of antigen/antibody interaction. Screening differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) of fly pupae is a basis of solving the problem. Here, we used the label-free proteomics technique to discover the DEPs and further validate using the parallel reaction monitoring technique (PRM) in the common flies. In this study, we reared the Chrysomya megacephala and Synthesiomyia nudiseta at constanttemperature, and then we sampled at least four pupae at 24 h intervals until the end of the intrapuparial stage. We found 132 DEPs between Ch. megacephala, and S. nudiseta groups, with 68 and 64 proteins being up-regulated and down-regulated between the two groups. Among the 132 DEPs, we selected five proteins having potential for further development and utilization, such as C1-tetrahydrofolate synthase, Malate dehydrogenase, Transferrin, Protein disulfide-isomerase, and Fructose-bisphosphate aldolase, for further validation using PRM-targeted proteomics, with the trends of PRM results being consistent with the label-free data for corresponding proteins. The present study investigated DEPs via the label-free technique during the pupal development in the Ch. megacephala, and S. nudiseta and provided reference data for development of rapid and accurate identification kits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunliu Fu
- Hainan Modern Women and Children's Hospital, Haikou 571100, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Hainan Provincial Academician Workstation (Tropical Forensic Medicine), Hainan Provincial Tropical Forensic Engineering Research Center, Haikou 570100, China
| | - Xing Zou
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Hainan Provincial Academician Workstation (Tropical Forensic Medicine), Hainan Provincial Tropical Forensic Engineering Research Center, Haikou 570100, China
| | - Tao Song
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Hainan Provincial Academician Workstation (Tropical Forensic Medicine), Hainan Provincial Tropical Forensic Engineering Research Center, Haikou 570100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Urabe S, Kurahashi H, Inokuchi G, Chiba F, Motomura A, Hoshioka Y, Torimitsu S, Yamaguchi R, Tsuneya S, Iwase H. Carrion flies (Insecta: Diptera) found on human cadavers in Chiba prefecture, Honshu, Japan, with the first record of Fannia prisca from a human corpse. J Forensic Sci 2022; 67:2469-2478. [PMID: 36059106 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.15128] [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: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Forensic entomology (FE) involves the collection and analysis of necrophagous insects and arthropods for postmortem interval estimation based on their growth and succession. In Japan, research on FE is limited, and the predominant species of necrophagous insects and their distribution have not been clarified. The present study aimed to clarify the actual situation of insects, targeting Diptera collected from human cadavers, in Chiba Prefecture. We targeted the cases for which specimens could be collected from forensic autopsies conducted at the Legal Medicine Department of Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine or from human bodies handled by the Chiba Police in 2019. We specifically chose cases from which adult insects could be bred. Fifty cases were applicable, and 47 cases were successful in rearing adult flies. Sixteen species of Diptera were identified: six species of Calliphoridae, four species of Sarcophagidae, and a few species of Fanniidae, Muscidae, Phoridae, Piophilidae, and Stratiomyidae. The most frequently observed species were Lucilia sericata (20 cases) and Chrysomya pinguis (18 cases). For the first time, globally, we recorded the presence of Fannia prisca in a human cadaver. In conclusion, this is the first report to reveal the presence of carrion flies in human death cases in Chiba Prefecture, Japan. Research in FE is important in the context of the Japanese natural and social environment since this can aid forensic investigations conducted by authorities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shumari Urabe
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.,Tokyo Medical Examiner's Office, Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiromu Kurahashi
- Department of Medical Entomology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Go Inokuchi
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumiko Chiba
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayumi Motomura
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Legal Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yumi Hoshioka
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Suguru Torimitsu
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rutsuko Yamaguchi
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shigeki Tsuneya
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hirotaro Iwase
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sukontason KL, Sanit S, Limsopatham K, Wannasan A, Somboon P, Sukontason K. Chrysomya pinguis (Walker) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), blow fly of forensic importance: A review of bionomics and forensic entomology appraisal. Acta Trop 2022; 232:106506. [PMID: 35562089 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Role of blow flies as the entomological evidence used in forensic investigations has risen dramatically worldwide. As the diverse habitats of Thailand suitably endowed with biodiversity of insects, blow flies of forensic importance need investigation in their bionomics, which are further applied in forensic investigations. Chrysomya pinguis (Walker, 1858) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) make up one of the most common blow fly species found associated with the human corpses and/or death scenes in several countries of the Asia continent. Given the major species as forensically important, this review is performed by the need for gathering information of C. pinguis from literature search in the future application in the regions where this species exists. This review deals with morphology, current knowledge on bionomics and forensic entomology involvement. Important morphological characteristics of egg, larva, puparium and adult were highlighted with illustration and/or micrographs. Search pertaining to molecular analysis used for fly identification and developmental rate of larvae were included. Furthermore, we outline potential issues and challenges of C. pinguis research that necessitate forensic applications in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kabkaew L Sukontason
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Sangob Sanit
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Kwankamol Limsopatham
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Wannasan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Pradya Somboon
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Kom Sukontason
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tembe D, Malatji MP, Mukaratirwa S. Molecular identification and diversity of adult arthropod carrion community collected from pig and sheep carcasses within the same locality during different stages of decomposition in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12500. [PMID: 34909274 PMCID: PMC8638566 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study aimed at molecular identification and comparing the diversity of arthropods communities between pig and sheep carcasses during the cold and warm season in KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. Adult arthropods found on and around the carcasses were collected using either fly traps or forceps. Molecular analyses confirmed the identification of twelve arthropod species collected from both sheep and pig carcasses during the cold season. Results showed that 11 of 12 arthropod species were common in both sheep and pig carcasses, with exception to Onthophagus vacca (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) (Linnaeus, 1767) and Atherigona soccata (Diptera: Muscidae) (Rondani, 1871) species which were unique to sheep and pig carcasses respectively. However, during the warm season, the sheep carcass attracted more arthropod (n = 13) species as compared to the pig carcass. The difference in the obtained arthropod was due to the presence of O. vacca which was also unique to the sheep carcass during this season. Furthermore, there was an addition of a beetle species Hycleus lunatus (Coleoptera: Meloidae) (Pallas, 1782), which was collected from both sheep and pig carcasses but unique to the warm season. The pig carcass attracted more dipteran flies during both warm (n = 1,519) and cold season (n = 779) as compared to sheep carcass during the warm (n = 511) and cold season (n = 229). In contrast, coleopterans were more abundant on the sheep carcass during the warm season (n = 391) and cold season (n = 135) as compared to the pig carcass in both warm season (n = 261) and cold season (n = 114). In overall, more flies and beetles were collected on both sheep and pig carcasses during the warm season, and this further highlight that temperature influenced the observed difference in the abundance of collected arthropod between seasons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danisile Tembe
- School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mokgadi Pulane Malatji
- School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Foundational Research and Services, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Samson Mukaratirwa
- School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, West Indies
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Meng F, Liu Z, Han H, Finkelbergs D, Jiang Y, Zhu M, Wang Y, Sun Z, Chen C, Guo Y, Cai J. Chromosome-level genome assembly of Aldrichina grahami, a forensically important blowfly. Gigascience 2020; 9:giaa020. [PMID: 32191812 PMCID: PMC7081965 DOI: 10.1093/gigascience/giaa020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blowflies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are the most commonly found entomological evidence in forensic investigations. Distinguished from other blowflies, Aldrichina grahami has some unique biological characteristics and is a species of forensic importance. Its development rate, pattern, and life cycle can provide valuable information for the estimation of the minimum postmortem interval. FINDINGS Herein we provide a chromosome-level genome assembly of A. grahami that was generated by Pacific BioSciences sequencing platform and chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) technology. A total of 50.15 Gb clean reads of the A. grahami genome were generated. FALCON and Wtdbg were used to construct the genome of A. grahami, resulting in an assembly of 600 Mb and 1,604 contigs with an N50 size of 1.93 Mb. We predicted 12,823 protein-coding genes, 99.8% of which was functionally annotated on the basis of the de novo genome (SRA: PRJNA513084) and transcriptome (SRA: SRX5207346) of A. grahami. According to the co-analysis with 11 other insect species, clustering and phylogenetic reconstruction of gene families were performed. Using Hi-C sequencing, a chromosome-level assembly of 6 chromosomes was generated with scaffold N50 of 104.7 Mb. Of these scaffolds, 96.4% were anchored to the total A. grahami genome contig bases. CONCLUSIONS The present study provides a robust genome reference for A. grahami that supplements vital genetic information for nonhuman forensic genomics and facilitates the future research of A. grahami and other necrophagous blowfly species used in forensic medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fanming Meng
- School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Pro, China
| | - Zhuoying Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Pro, China
| | - Han Han
- School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Pro, China
| | | | - Yangshuai Jiang
- School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Pro, China
| | - Mingfei Zhu
- Nextomics Biosciences, Wuhan, Hubei Pro, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Nextomics Biosciences, Wuhan, Hubei Pro, China
| | - Zongyi Sun
- Nextomics Biosciences, Wuhan, Hubei Pro, China
| | - Chao Chen
- Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences
| | - Yadong Guo
- School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Pro, China
| | - Jifeng Cai
- School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Pro, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jafari S, Oshaghi MA, Akbarzadeh K, Abai MR, Koosha M, Mohtarami F. Identification of Forensically Important Flesh Flies Using the Cytochrome C Oxidase Subunits I and II Genes. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2019; 56:1253-1259. [PMID: 31121043 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjz063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Forensically important flesh flies (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) often are not morphologically distinguishable, especially at the immature stage. In addition, female flies are quite similar in general morphology, making accurate identifications difficult. DNA-based technologies, particularly mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), have been used for species-level identification. The cytochrome oxidase subunits I and II (COI-COII) sequences of Iranian Sarcophagidae are still unavailable in GenBank. In this study as many as 648 (540 males and 106 females) fly specimens from family Sarcophagidae, representing 10 sarcophagid species, including eight forensically important species were collected from seven locations in five Iranian provinces. Of these, 150 male specimens were identified based on both morphology of male genitalia and DNA sequencing analysis. Sequence data from the COI-COII regions for 10 flesh fly species collected in Iran were generated for the first time. Digestion of COI-COII region by restriction enzymes RsaI, EcoRV, and HinfI provided distinct restriction fragment length polymorphism profiles among the species and can serve as molecular markers for species determination. Phylogenetic analysis represented that the COI-COII sequences are helpful for delimitation of sarcophagid species and implementation in forensic entomology. However, the application of the COI-COII fragment as a species identifier requires great caution and additional species and markers should be studied to ensure accurate species identification in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samin Jafari
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Oshaghi
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamran Akbarzadeh
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Abai
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mona Koosha
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mohtarami
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jang H, Shin SE, Youm KJ, Karagozlu MZ, Kim CB, Ko KS, Park SH. Molecular Identification of Necrophagous Dermestes Species in South Korea Using Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit I Nucleotide Sequences (Genus Dermestes). J Forensic Sci 2019; 65:283-287. [PMID: 31436852 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Species identification of necrophagous insects found on a dead body is an essential key in applying medicolegal entomology to the estimation of postmortem interval (PMI). Due to limited morphological identification of insect evidence, several studies have identified species using molecular information such as DNA markers. While considerable cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequence data of necrophagous fly species have been collected and annotated, those of necrophagous beetle species have not. Since necrophagous beetles such as Dermestes species have a larval period longer than that of flies, beetles are useful in even the late decomposition phase in estimating minimum PMI. To obtain the full-length COI gene sequences of six Dermestes species collected from South Korea, we designed primers for polymerase chain reaction amplification and sequencing. The obtained full COI nucleotide sequences were used for performing phylogenic analysis and comparison with previously reported sequences. The results demonstrated that the COI gene sequences could be used to identify forensically important Dermestes species in South Korea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hari Jang
- Department of Legal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, 73, Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Sang Eon Shin
- Department of Legal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, 73, Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Kyu Jin Youm
- Department of Legal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, 73, Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Mustafa Zafer Karagozlu
- Department of Biotechnology, Sangmyung University, 20, Hongjimun 2-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03016, Korea
| | - Chang Bae Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Sangmyung University, 20, Hongjimun 2-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03016, Korea
| | - Kwang Soo Ko
- Department of Legal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, 73, Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Seong Hwan Park
- Department of Legal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, 73, Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
SNP Typing Using Multiplex Real-Time PCR Assay for Species Identification of Forensically Important Blowflies and Fleshflies Collected in South Korea (Diptera: Calliphoridae and Sarcophagidae). BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:6762517. [PMID: 30984782 PMCID: PMC6432722 DOI: 10.1155/2019/6762517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Medicolegal entomology—a subfield of forensic entomology—is mainly used in medicolegal investigations to estimate the postmortem interval (PMI). The minimum PMI of a corpse invaded by necrophagous immature insects can be estimated because the PMI is near to or earlier than the oviposition time of the larvae that hatched and fed on the corpse. As the growth speeds of larvae differ depending on temperature and species, species-specific growth data are used to estimate the minimum PMI. While morphological identification of adult necrophagous flies can be done by a well-trained entomologist, identification of larvae is relatively difficult. Larvae can only be identified up to the family level and developmental stage by observing the posterior spiracles. For these reasons, the molecular biology method of DNA barcoding has been developed. DNA barcoding that targets the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene is commonly used. COI sequences are currently acquired using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Sanger sequencing, which are too time-consuming and complex for practical use in medicolegal investigations. To compensate for these limitations and facilitate the use of entomology for medicolegal investigation, we designed a multiplex real-time PCR system to identify nineteen forensically important species of Calliphoridae and Sarcophagidae flies collected in South Korea. In contrast to the Sanger nucleotide sequencing process, this technology only requires a one-step real-time PCR with melt curve analysis of amplicons generated by primers targeting species-specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Multiplex real-time PCR was performed for twelve species of Calliphoridae (four reactions) and for seven species of Sarcophagidae (three reactions). This assay is expected to make it easier and faster for investigating authorities to identify major species of necrophagous flies at beginning of investigation and to increase the utilization of entomological evidence in forensic investigations.
Collapse
|
9
|
Bortolini S, Giordani G, Tuccia F, Maistrello L, Vanin S. Do longer sequences improve the accuracy of identification of forensically important Calliphoridae species? PeerJ 2018; 6:e5962. [PMID: 30588393 PMCID: PMC6301277 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.5962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Species identification is a crucial step in forensic entomology. In several cases the calculation of the larval age allows the estimation of the minimum Post-Mortem Interval (mPMI). A correct identification of the species is the first step for a correct mPMI estimation. To overcome the difficulties due to the morphological identification especially of the immature stages, a molecular approach can be applied. However, difficulties in separation of closely related species are still an unsolved problem. Sequences of 4 different genes (COI, ND5, EF-1α, PER) of 13 different fly species collected during forensic experiments (Calliphora vicina, Calliphora vomitoria, Lucilia sericata, Lucilia illustris, Lucilia caesar, Chrysomya albiceps, Phormia regina, Cynomya mortuorum, Sarcophaga sp., Hydrotaea sp., Fannia scalaris, Piophila sp., Megaselia scalaris) were evaluated for their capability to identify correctly the species. Three concatenated sequences were obtained combining the four genes in order to verify if longer sequences increase the probability of a correct identification. The obtained results showed that this rule does not work for the species L. caesar and L. illustris. Future works on other DNA regions are suggested to solve this taxonomic issue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bortolini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Giorgia Giordani
- School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, United Kingdom
| | - Fabiola Tuccia
- School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, United Kingdom
| | - Lara Maistrello
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Stefano Vanin
- School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sukontason KL, Bhoopat T, Wannasan A, Sontigun N, Sanit S, Amendt J, Samerjai C, Sukontason K. Chrysomya chani Kurahashi (Diptera: Calliphoridae), a blow fly species of forensic importance: morphological characters of the third larval instar and a case report from Thailand. Forensic Sci Res 2018; 3:83-93. [PMID: 30483655 PMCID: PMC6197134 DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2018.1428078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Blow flies are worldwide the most important insects from a forensic point of view. In Thailand, aside from the two most common species, Chrysomya megacephala (F.) and Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart), Chrysomya chani Kurahashi was also found to be of forensic importance. We present a case of a human female cadaver in its bloated stage of decomposition, discovered at Pachangnoi Subdistrict, northern Thailand. Entomological sampling during the autopsy displayed an assemblage of numerous dipteran larvae. Macroscopic observations showed the coexistence of third instar larvae of the three blow flies C. megacephala, Chrysomya villeneuvi Patton, an unknown blow fly species and one muscid, Hydrotaea sp. The minimum post-mortem interval was estimated to be six days, based on the developmental rate of C. megacephala. The ID of the unknown larva, which is the focus of this report, was revealed later as C. chani by DNA sequencing, using a 1205 bp of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI). The occurrence of C. chani on a human body revealed the need to analyse and describe the morphology of its immature stage, to enable forensic entomologists to identify this fly species in future cases. The morphological examination of the third instar was performed, revealing peculiar characteristics: protuberant tubercles encircling abdominal segments; 9–11 lobes on the anterior spiracle; six prominent pairs of tubercles along the peripheral rim of the eighth abdominal segment; a heavily sclerotized complete peritreme of the posterior spiracles. A key to differentiate the third instar of blow flies of forensic importance in Thailand is provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kabkaew L Sukontason
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Tanin Bhoopat
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Wannasan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Narin Sontigun
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Sangob Sanit
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Jens Amendt
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Forensic Biology/Entomology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Chutharat Samerjai
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kom Sukontason
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Badenhorst R, Villet MH. The uses of Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius, 1794) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in forensic entomology. Forensic Sci Res 2018; 3:2-15. [PMID: 30483647 PMCID: PMC6197084 DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2018.1426136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius, 1794) occurs on every continent and is closely associated with carrion and decaying material in human environments. Its abilities to find dead bodies and carry pathogens give it a prominence in human affairs that may involve prosecution or litigation, and therefore forensic entomologists. The identification, geographical distribution and biology of the species are reviewed to provide a background for approaches that four branches of forensic entomology (urban, stored-product, medico-criminal and environmental) might take to investigations involving this fly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rozane Badenhorst
- Southern African Forensic Entomology Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa
| | - Martin H. Villet
- Southern African Forensic Entomology Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Federico C, Lombardo D, La Porta N, Pappalardo AM, Ferrito V, Lombardo F, Saccone S. Rapid molecular identification of necrophagous diptera by means of variable-length intron sequences in the wingless gene. J Forensic Leg Med 2018. [PMID: 29533208 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2018.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The arrival of arthropods at a corpse exhibits specific temporal patterns, and Diptera play a key role in the initial stages of the decomposition process. Thus, the correct species assignment of the insect larvae found on a decomposing body is an important step in forensic investigations. Here, we describe a molecular procedure to define the species at larval age found on a corpse more quickly and easily than current systems. Our method involves a unique PCR amplification of a DNA segment within the evolutionarily conserved wingless gene, involved in embryo development. The amplified DNA segment contains the fourth intron of wingless, which we found to be variable in length, from about 800 to 3000 bp, among species of necrophagous Diptera. The identification of the amplified segment size in species from Lucilia, Calliphora and Sarcophaga genera, allowed us to determine the species at larval age collected in the early stages of a decomposing body, with a simple PCR amplification and subsequent electrophoresis. This procedure may help in forensic investigations to estimate the minimum Post Mortem Interval (PMI-min) of a body colonized by these larvae, avoiding the use of time-consuming and/or more expensive procedures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Concetta Federico
- Dept. Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Debora Lombardo
- Dept. Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Noemi La Porta
- Dept. Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Pappalardo
- Dept. Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Venera Ferrito
- Dept. Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Lombardo
- Dept. Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Dept. Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Park JH, Kim YH, Ham CS, Shin SE, Lee HJ, Ko KS, Choi J, Son GH, Park SH. Molecular identification of forensically important calliphoridae and sarcophagidae species using ITS2 nucleotide sequences. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 284:1-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2017.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
14
|
Meng F, Ren L, Wang Z, Deng J, Guo Y, Chen C, Finkelbergs D, Cai J. Identification of Forensically Important Blow Flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in China Based on COI. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2017; 54:1193-1200. [PMID: 28535279 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjx105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Blow flies are among the most important insects in forensic entomology casework. Identification of blow fly species can be a time consuming and difficult task, especially at their early development stages. Present DNA-based technologies provide a promising identification method for these forensically important calliphorids. The cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) sequence has been applied as a suitable DNA marker in calliphorid identification for many years; however, limitation exists in using short sequence to determine genetically close species. In this study, COI long sequences were utilized in species-level identification. Seventy-two specimens were collected from 27 locations across 22 Chinese provinces, and unambiguously determined as 16 species under seven genera of Calliphoridae. Analysis of long mitochondrial COI sequence (1,021-1,382 bp) data from forensically relevant blow flies collected in the inland region of China provided a reliable marker for accurate identification. Our data provide genetic diversity and reference for global forensic-related blow fly species identification, and conductive meaning on future utilization of Chinese calliphorids used in forensic entomological practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fanming Meng
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Lipin Ren
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Ziyue Wang
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Jianqiang Deng
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Yadong Guo
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Chao Chen
- Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Dmitrijs Finkelbergs
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Jifeng Cai
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Charabidze D, Gosselin M, Hedouin V. Use of necrophagous insects as evidence of cadaver relocation: myth or reality? PeerJ 2017; 5:e3506. [PMID: 28785513 PMCID: PMC5543926 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.3506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of insects as indicators of post-mortem displacement is discussed in many texts, courses and TV shows, and several studies addressing this issue have been published. Although the concept is widely cited, it is poorly understood, and only a few forensic cases have successfully applied such a method. The use of necrophagous insects as evidence of cadaver relocation actually involves a wide range of biological aspects. Distribution, microhabitat, phenology, behavioral ecology, and molecular analysis are among the research areas associated with this topic. This article provides the first review of the current knowledge and addresses the potential and limitations of different methods to evaluate their applicability. This work reveals numerous weaknesses and erroneous beliefs as well as many possibilities and research opportunities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damien Charabidze
- CHU Lille, EA 7367 UTML - Unite de Taphonomie Medico-Legale, Univ Lille, Lille, France
| | - Matthias Gosselin
- Research Institute of Biosciences, Laboratory of Zoology, UMONS - Université de Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Valéry Hedouin
- CHU Lille, EA 7367 UTML - Unite de Taphonomie Medico-Legale, Univ Lille, Lille, France
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wang X, Xiong M, Wang J, Lei C, Zhu F. Reference gene stability of a synanthropic fly, Chrysomya megacephala. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:565. [PMID: 26515169 PMCID: PMC4625446 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-1175-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Stable reference genes are essential for accurate normalization in gene expression studies with reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). A synanthropic fly, Chrysomya megacephala, is a well known medical vector and forensic indicator. Unfortunately, previous studies did not look at the stability of reference genes used in C. megacephala. Results In this study, the expression level of Actin, ribosomal protein L8 (Rpl8), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), elongation factor 1α (EF1), α-tubulin (α-TUB), β-tubulin (β-TUB), TATA binding box (TBP), 18S rRNA (18S) and ribosomal protein S7 (Rps7) were evaluated for their stability using online software RefFinder, which combines the normal software of the ΔCt method, BestKeeper, Normfinder, and geNorm. Moreover the number of suitable reference gene pairs was also suggested by Excel-based geNorm. The expression levels of these reference genes were evaluated under different experimental conditions with special perspectives of forensic applications: developmental stages (eggs, first, second and third instar larvae, pupae and adults); food sources of larvae (pork, fish and chicken); feeding larvae with drugs (untreated control, Estazolam and Marvelon); feeding larvae with heavy metals (untreated control, cadmium and zinc); tissues of adults (head, thorax, abdomen, legs and wings). According to RefFinder, EF1 was the most suitable reference gene of developmental stages, food and tissues; 18S and GAPDH were the most suitable reference genes for drugs and heavy metals, respectively, which could be widely used for quantification of target gene expression with qPCR in C. megacephala. Suitable reference gene pairs were also suggested by geNorm. Conclusion This fundamental but vital work should facilitate the gene studies of related biological processes and deepen the understanding in physiology, toxicology, and especially medical and forensic entomology of C. megacephala. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-015-1175-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyun Wang
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
| | - Mei Xiong
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
| | - Jialu Wang
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
| | - Chaoliang Lei
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
| | - Fen Zhu
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Brodie BS, Wong WHL, VanLaerhoven S, Gries G. Is aggregated oviposition by the blow flies Lucilia sericata and Phormia regina (Diptera: Calliphoridae) really pheromone-mediated? INSECT SCIENCE 2015; 22:651-660. [PMID: 25099558 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
When female blow flies Lucilia sericata and Phormia regina (Diptera: Calliphoridae) oviposit in aggregations on carrion, even-aged larval offspring reportedly develop faster, and fewer are parasitized or preyed upon. The benefits of aggregated oviposition equally affect con- and heterospecific larvae sharing a resource. The benefits imply that female blow flies engage in coordinated, pheromone-mediated oviposition behavior. Yet, repeated attempts to identify oviposition pheromones have failed invoking doubt that they exist. Simply by regurgitating and feeding on carrion, flies may produce attractive semiochemicals. If flies were to aggregate in response to feeding flies rather than ovipositing flies, then the semiochemical cue(s) may be associated with the salivary gland. Working with L. sericata and P. regina and using liver as a surrogate oviposition medium, we test the hypotheses, and present data in their support, that (i) gravid or nongravid females ovipositing and/or feeding on liver enhance its attractiveness to gravid and nongravid females; (ii) females respond to semiochemicals from feeding heterospecific females; (iii) females respond equally well to semiochemicals from feeding con- and heterospecific females; (iv) macerated head tissues of females applied to liver enhance its attractiveness; and (v) females in direct contact with and feeding on liver, but not when next to yet physically separated from liver, enhance attraction of flies. We conclude that oviposition site-seeking females do not respond to an oviposition pheromone. Instead, they appear to coopt semiochemicals associated with feeding flies as resource indicators, taking chances that resources are suitable for oviposition, and that ovipositing flies are present.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bekka S Brodie
- Simon Fraser University, Dept. of Biological Sciences Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Warren H L Wong
- Simon Fraser University, Dept. of Biological Sciences Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | | | - Gerhard Gries
- Simon Fraser University, Dept. of Biological Sciences Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
The First Survey of Forensically Important Entomofauna Collected from Medicolegal Autopsies in South Korea. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:606728. [PMID: 26185759 PMCID: PMC4491565 DOI: 10.1155/2015/606728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2015] [Revised: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 06/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Forensic entomology applies insect evidence to legal problems such as the estimation of minimum postmortem interval (mPMI). For this purpose, knowledge of the insect fauna that are attracted to human cadavers in each geographic region is a prerequisite. Despite many studies investigating the insect fauna attracted to meat, there has been no survey of the entomofauna on human cadavers in the East Asian temperate climate zone, particularly in Korea. Therefore, this study reports the entomofauna collected from medicolegal autopsies in northeastern Seoul and its suburbs. Insect samples were collected from 35 medicolegal autopsies in 2010, 2011, and 2013. Molecular and morphological methods were utilized for taxonomic identification. Among 1398 individual samples belonging to 3 orders, 13 families, 18 genera, and 32 species, the dominant family and species were Calliphoridae and Lucilia sericata, respectively. Despite its limited scale, this study provides a snapshot of the general entomofauna that are attracted to human cadavers in this region.
Collapse
|
19
|
Sonet G, Jordaens K, Braet Y, Bourguignon L, Dupont E, Backeljau T, De Meyer M, Desmyter S. Utility of GenBank and the Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD) for the identification of forensically important Diptera from Belgium and France. Zookeys 2013:307-28. [PMID: 24453564 PMCID: PMC3890684 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.365.6027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fly larvae living on dead corpses can be used to estimate post-mortem intervals. The identification of these flies is decisive in forensic casework and can be facilitated by using DNA barcodes provided that a representative and comprehensive reference library of DNA barcodes is available. We constructed a local (Belgium and France) reference library of 85 sequences of the COI DNA barcode fragment (mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene), from 16 fly species of forensic interest (Calliphoridae, Muscidae, Fanniidae). This library was then used to evaluate the ability of two public libraries (GenBank and the Barcode of Life Data Systems – BOLD) to identify specimens from Belgian and French forensic cases. The public libraries indeed allow a correct identification of most specimens. Yet, some of the identifications remain ambiguous and some forensically important fly species are not, or insufficiently, represented in the reference libraries. Several search options offered by GenBank and BOLD can be used to further improve the identifications obtained from both libraries using DNA barcodes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gontran Sonet
- Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, OD Taxonomy and Phylogeny (JEMU), Vautierstraat 29, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kurt Jordaens
- Royal Museum for Central Africa, Department of Biology (JEMU), Leuvensesteenweg 13, 3080 Tervuren, Belgium ; University of Antwerp, Evolutionary Ecology Group, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Yves Braet
- National Institute of Criminalistics and Criminology, Vilvoordsesteenweg 100, 1120 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luc Bourguignon
- National Institute of Criminalistics and Criminology, Vilvoordsesteenweg 100, 1120 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Eréna Dupont
- National Institute of Criminalistics and Criminology, Vilvoordsesteenweg 100, 1120 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thierry Backeljau
- Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, OD Taxonomy and Phylogeny (JEMU), Vautierstraat 29, 1000 Brussels, Belgium ; University of Antwerp, Evolutionary Ecology Group, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Marc De Meyer
- Royal Museum for Central Africa, Department of Biology (JEMU), Leuvensesteenweg 13, 3080 Tervuren, Belgium
| | - Stijn Desmyter
- National Institute of Criminalistics and Criminology, Vilvoordsesteenweg 100, 1120 Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|