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Lee EJ, Jeong M, Lee H, Je MA, Park K, Lee DG, Xuan X, Kim S, Park S, Kim J. MiR-122, miR-133a, and miR-206 as potential biomarkers for post-mortem interval estimation. Genes Genomics 2024:10.1007/s13258-024-01559-x. [PMID: 39207675 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-024-01559-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUD Accurate estimation of post-mortem interval (PMI) is crucial in forensic investigations. MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) are small non-coding RNAs that remain relatively stable within the cell nucleus despite post-mortem changes. OBJECTIVE We assessed three target genes (miR-122, miR-133a, and miR-206) for PMI estimation using 72 healthy adult male BALB/c mice exposed to two different temperatures (4 and 21℃) at nine different time points over 10 days. METHODS Initially, the stability of the two reference genes (RNU6B and 5 srRNA) was evaluated using gene stability analysis tools (Delta Ct, Best Keeper, and Genorm) to select the optimal reference gene. RNU6B was found to be the most stable endogenous control. Subsequently, the expression patterns of miR-122, miR-133a, and miR-206 were analyzed within a 10-day PMI period using the heart, skeletal muscle, liver, and brain tissues. RESULTS At 4℃, miR-122 levels significantly decreased on days 8 and 10 in all tissues, with only the liver showing significant changes at 21℃. MiR-133a decreased over time in the heart, muscles, and brain, showing a dramatic decrease on days 8 and 10 in the heart and muscles at both temperatures. Although miR-206 levels decreased over time in muscles and liver at 4 ℃, these increased in the brain at 21 ℃, with no expression changes in other organs. CONCLUSION In summary, miR-122, miR-133a, and miR-206 are potential PMI markers in heart and skeletal muscle tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Ju Lee
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
- Department of Research and Development, Korea Mycobacterium Resource Center (KMRC), The Korean Institute of Tuberculosis, Osong, 28158, Republic of Korea
| | - Mingyoung Jeong
- Department of Forensic Science, Graduate School, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
| | - Haneul Lee
- Department of Forensic Science, Graduate School, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
- Next-Generation Industrial Field-Based Specialist Program for Molecular Diagnostics, Brain Busan 21 Plus Project, Graduate School, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-A Je
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwangmin Park
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
- Next-Generation Industrial Field-Based Specialist Program for Molecular Diagnostics, Brain Busan 21 Plus Project, Graduate School, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Geon Lee
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
- Next-Generation Industrial Field-Based Specialist Program for Molecular Diagnostics, Brain Busan 21 Plus Project, Graduate School, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
| | - Xianglan Xuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
- Next-Generation Industrial Field-Based Specialist Program for Molecular Diagnostics, Brain Busan 21 Plus Project, Graduate School, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunghyun Kim
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
- Department of Forensic Science, Graduate School, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
- Next-Generation Industrial Field-Based Specialist Program for Molecular Diagnostics, Brain Busan 21 Plus Project, Graduate School, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunyoung Park
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03772, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jungho Kim
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Forensic Science, Graduate School, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea.
- Next-Generation Industrial Field-Based Specialist Program for Molecular Diagnostics, Brain Busan 21 Plus Project, Graduate School, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, 46252, Republic of Korea.
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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] [MESH Headings] [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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Cianci V, Mondello C, Sapienza D, Guerrera MC, Cianci A, Cracò A, Omero F, Gioffrè V, Gualniera P, Asmundo A, Germanà A. Potential Role of mRNA in Estimating Postmortem Interval: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8185. [PMID: 39125753 PMCID: PMC11311348 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Although the postmortem interval estimation still represents one of the main goals of forensic medicine, there are still several limitations that weigh on the methods most used for its determination: for this reason, even today, precisely estimating the postmortem interval remains one of the most important challenges in the forensic pathology field. To try to overcome these limitations, in recent years, numerous studies have been conducted on the potential use of the mRNA degradation time for reaching a more precise post mortem interval (PMI) estimation. An evidence-based systematic review of the literature has been conducted to evaluate the state of the art of the knowledge focusing on the potential correlation between mRNA degradation and PMI estimation. The research has been performed using the electronic databases PubMed and Scopus. The analysis conducted made it possible to confirm the potential applicability of mRNA for reaching a more precise PMI estimation. The analysis of the results highlighted the usefulness of some mRNAs, such as β-actin and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) mRNA, especially in short time frames, within a few hours or days of death. The matrices on which these analyses were conducted were also analyzed, resulting in less exposure to the external environment, including the heart, brain, and dental pulp. The major limitations were also reported, including the short time intervals analyzed in most of the articles, the lack of mathematical models, and the failure to report the error rate between the mRNA degradation time and PMI. Given the still small number of published articles, the lack of globally recognized standardized methods, and the numerous techniques used to evaluate the mRNA degradation times, numerous and larger studies are still necessary to reach more solid and shared evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Cianci
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.M.); (P.G.); (A.A.)
| | - Cristina Mondello
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.M.); (P.G.); (A.A.)
| | - Daniela Sapienza
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.M.); (P.G.); (A.A.)
| | - Maria Cristina Guerrera
- Zebrafish Neuromorphology Lab, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (M.C.G.); (A.G.)
| | - Alessio Cianci
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli-IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Annalisa Cracò
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University Hospital Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Fausto Omero
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology “G. Barresi”, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Vittorio Gioffrè
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, IRCCS San Raffaele, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Gualniera
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.M.); (P.G.); (A.A.)
| | - Alessio Asmundo
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.M.); (P.G.); (A.A.)
| | - Antonino Germanà
- Zebrafish Neuromorphology Lab, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (M.C.G.); (A.G.)
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Battistini A, Capitanio D, Bailo P, Moriggi M, Tambuzzi S, Gelfi C, Piccinini A. Proteomic analysis by mass spectrometry of postmortem muscle protein degradation for PMI estimation: A pilot study. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 349:111774. [PMID: 37399773 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
The determination of the postmortem interval is a topic of great forensic interest. The possibility of using new technologies has allowed the study of postmortem decay of biomolecules in the determination of PMI. Skeletal muscle proteins are promising candidates because skeletal muscle exhibits slower postmortem decay compared to other internal organs and nervous tissues, while its degradation is faster than cartilage and bone. In this pilot study, skeletal muscle tissue from pigs was degraded at two different controlled temperatures, 21 °C and 6 °C, and analysed at predefined times points: 0, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h. The obtained samples were analysed by mass spectrometry proteomics approach for qualitative and quantitative evaluation of proteins and peptides. Immunoblotting validation was performed for the candidate proteins. The results obtained appeared significant and identified several proteins useful for possible postmortem interval estimation. Of these proteins, PDLIM7, TPM1, and ATP2A2 were validated by immunoblotting at a larger number of experimental points and at different temperatures. The results obtained are in agreement with those observed in similar works. In addition, the use of a mass spectrometry approach increased the number of protein species identified, providing a larger panel of proteins for PMI assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Battistini
- Sezione di Medicina Legale e delle Assicurazioni, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli, 37, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | | | - Paolo Bailo
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Manuela Moriggi
- University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Tambuzzi
- Sezione di Medicina Legale e delle Assicurazioni, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli, 37, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Cecilia Gelfi
- University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy; IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Via Riccardo Galeazzi 4, 20161 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Piccinini
- Sezione di Medicina Legale e delle Assicurazioni, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli, 37, 20133 Milan, Italy
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Mezzetti E, Costantino A, Leoni M, Pieretti R, Di Paolo M, Frati P, Maiese A, Fineschi V. Autoimmune Heart Disease: A Comprehensive Summary for Forensic Practice. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1364. [PMID: 37629654 PMCID: PMC10456745 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59081364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune heart disease is a non-random condition characterised by immune system-mediated aggression against cardiac tissue. Cardiac changes often exhibit nonspecific features and, if unrecognised, can result in fatal outcomes even among seemingly healthy young individuals. In the absence of reliable medical history, the primary challenge lies in differentiating between the various cardiopathies. Numerous immunohistochemical and genetic studies have endeavoured to characterise distinct types of cardiopathies, facilitating their differentiation during autopsy examinations. However, the presence of a standardised protocol that forensic pathologists can employ to guide their investigations would be beneficial. Hence, this summary aims to present the spectrum of autoimmune cardiopathies, including emerging insights such as SARS-CoV-2-induced cardiopathies, and proposes the utilisation of practical tools, such as blood markers, to aid forensic pathologists in their routine practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Mezzetti
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.M.); (A.C.); (M.L.); (R.P.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Andrea Costantino
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.M.); (A.C.); (M.L.); (R.P.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Matteo Leoni
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.M.); (A.C.); (M.L.); (R.P.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Rebecca Pieretti
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.M.); (A.C.); (M.L.); (R.P.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Marco Di Paolo
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.M.); (A.C.); (M.L.); (R.P.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy; (P.F.); (V.F.)
| | - Aniello Maiese
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.M.); (A.C.); (M.L.); (R.P.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy; (P.F.); (V.F.)
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Singh P, Ali W, Sandhu S, Mishra S, Singh US, Verma AK, Singh M, Kaleem Ahmad M, Kumari S. Post-mortem interval estimation using miRNAs of road traffic accident cases: A forensic molecular approach. Sci Justice 2023; 63:485-492. [PMID: 37453780 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2023.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
In forensic examination accurate estimation of post-mortem interval (PMI) is a challenging task, particularly in the advanced stages of decomposition. The existing methods (algor mortis, livor mortis, rigor mortis, putrefaction etc) used for estimating PMI rely on analyzing the physical, biochemical, and metabolic changes that occur in the corpse after death. While these methods have shown some level of effectiveness in estimating PMI during the early stages of decomposition, accurate estimation becomes increasingly challenging during the later stages of putrefaction when the body undergoes significant changes. Recently, microRNA (miRNA) profiling due to its relatively small size and stability has emerged as a promising tool in several areas of forensics. This study demonstrates the potential of miRNA for PMI estimation in advanced stages of death. In this study, miRNA-195, miRNA-206, and miRNA-378 were selected as target miRNAs and miRNA-1 as reference miRNA. Left ventricle tissue (5 g) of the heart from 20 forensic autopsies of traffic accident victims (18-32 years) were collected and processed. The samples were held at room temperature for eight different time intervals (12, 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, 168 and 196 h), and RNA was extracted from all the samples using Trizol-based RNA isolation protocol, followed by cDNA synthesis and amplification with commercially available specific miRNA probes in Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR), Ct was calculated. The result showed that miRNAs were associated with PMI. Over time, there were substantial changes in the Ct values of all three miRNAs, with significant reductions observed at 196 h compared to 12 h. miRNA-206 demonstrated significant changes at multiple time intervals, while miRNA-1 remained stable for up to 196 h and thus holds caas an endogenous marker. In conclusion, miRNA has the potential to serve as a valuable tool for estimating PMI, especially during the advanced stages of decomposition, when used in conjunction with established techniques. However, further validation of the study is required to obtain more accurate estimates of PMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paurabhi Singh
- Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Wahid Ali
- Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Sangram Sandhu
- Department of Prosthodontics, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India.
| | - Sridhar Mishra
- Department of Pathology, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Uma Shankar Singh
- Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Anoop K Verma
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India.
| | - Mousami Singh
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India.
| | - M Kaleem Ahmad
- Department of Biochemistry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India.
| | - Sangeeta Kumari
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India.
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Guardado-Estrada M, Cárdenas-Monroy CA, Martínez-Rivera V, Cortez F, Pedraza-Lara C, Millan-Catalan O, Pérez-Plasencia C. A miRNome analysis at the early postmortem interval. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15409. [PMID: 37304870 PMCID: PMC10257396 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The postmortem interval (PMI) is the time elapsing since the death of an individual until the body is examined. Different molecules have been analyzed to better estimate the PMI with variable results. The miRNAs draw attention in the forensic field to estimate the PMI as they can better support degradation. In the present work, we analyzed the miRNome at early PMI in rats' skeletal muscle using the Affymetrix GeneChip™ miRNA 4.0 microarrays. We found 156 dysregulated miRNAs in rats' skeletal muscle at 24 h of PMI, out of which 84 were downregulated, and 72 upregulated. The miRNA most significantly downregulated was miR-139-5p (FC = -160, p = 9.97 × 10-11), while the most upregulated was rno-miR-92b-5p (FC = 241.18, p = 2.39 × 10-6). Regarding the targets of these dysregulated miRNAs, the rno-miR-125b-5p and rno-miR-138-5p were the miRNAs with more mRNA targets. The mRNA targets that we found in the present study participate in several biological processes such as interleukin secretion regulation, translation regulation, cell growth, or low oxygen response. In addition, we found a downregulation of SIRT1 mRNA and an upregulation of TGFBR2 mRNA at 24 h of PMI. These results suggest there is an active participation of miRNAs at early PMI which could be further explored to identify potential biomarkers for PMI estimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariano Guardado-Estrada
- Laboratorio de Genética, Ciencia Forense, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Christian A. Cárdenas-Monroy
- Laboratorio de Genética, Ciencia Forense, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Vanessa Martínez-Rivera
- Laboratorio de Genética, Ciencia Forense, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Fernanda Cortez
- Computational Genomics Division, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Carlos Pedraza-Lara
- Laboratorio de Entomología, Ciencia Forense, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Oliver Millan-Catalan
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Laboratorio de Genómica, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Carlos Pérez-Plasencia
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Laboratorio de Genómica, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Mexico City, Mexico
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Laboratorio de Genómica, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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Uncertainty of Postmortem Time Estimation Based on Potassium Ion Determination in Vitreous Humor Using Potentiometric Ion-Selective Electrode and Microwave-Induced Plasma with Optical Emission Spectrometry Methods. SEPARATIONS 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/separations10030201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a need for a reliable and independent evaluation and confirmation of the postmortem interval (PMI) based on objective factors other than only postmortem changes or temperature measurements. Estimating the PMI by examining the concentration of potassium ions in the vitreous humor (VH) has a tradition in forensic toxicology dating back to the mid-20th century. So far, the methods for determining the presence of potassium ions have not been characterized in terms of the measurement uncertainty of types A and B, which directly affect the estimation of time of death uncertainty. The study evaluated the uncertainty of the determination of potassium ion concentrations using potentiometric ion-selective electrode (ISE) and microwave-induced plasma with optical emission spectrometry (MIP-OES) methods. In addition, the influence of the estimated measurement uncertainty on the results of the analysis of potassium ions in the VH was investigated. The estimated values of the expanded uncertainty determined by the type A experimental method indicate lower uncertainty in the determination of potassium ion concentration in the case of MIP-OES than ISE; that is, for concentrations of 2, 10, and 25 mg/L of potassium ions, the expanded uncertainties by MIP-OES were 1.2%, 2.2%, and 2.5% and the uncertainties by ISE were 12.2%, 6.1%, and 3.1%, respectively. Similarly, in the case of estimating the uncertainty of type B, the MIP-OES method compared to ISE was characterized by almost two times lower expanded uncertainty; that is, for MIP-OES, it was 2.53%, and for ISE, it was 4.75%. Both methods of uncertainty estimation, types A and B, can be used interchangeably, as they provide comparable results.
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Cao J, An G, Li J, Wang L, Ren K, Du Q, Yun K, Wang Y, Sun J. Combined metabolomics and tandem machine-learning models for wound age estimation: a novel analytical strategy. Forensic Sci Res 2023; 8:50-61. [PMID: 37415796 PMCID: PMC10265958 DOI: 10.1093/fsr/owad007] [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: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Wound age estimation is one of the most challenging and indispensable issues for forensic pathologists. Although many methods based on physical findings and biochemical tests can be used to estimate wound age, an objective and reliable method for inferring the time interval after injury remains difficult. In the present study, endogenous metabolites of contused skeletal muscle were investigated to estimate the time interval after injury. Animal model of skeletal muscle injury was established using Sprague-Dawley rat, and the contused muscles were sampled at 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, and 48 h postcontusion (n = 9). Then, the samples were analysed using ultraperformance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry. A total of 43 differential metabolites in contused muscle were determined by metabolomics method. They were applied to construct a two-level tandem prediction model for wound age estimation based on multilayer perceptron algorithm. As a result, all muscle samples were eventually divided into the following subgroups: 4, 8, 12, 16-20, 24-32, 36-40, and 44-48 h. The tandem model exhibited a robust performance and achieved a prediction accuracy of 92.6%, which was much higher than that of the single model. In summary, the multilayer perceptron-multilayer perceptron tandem machine-learning model based on metabolomics data can be used as a novel strategy for wound age estimation in future forensic casework. Key Points The changes of metabolite profile were correlated with the time interval after injury in contused skeletal muscle.A panel of 43 endogenous metabolites screened by ultraperformance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry could distinguish the wound ages.The multilayer perceptron (MLP) algorithm exhibited a robust performance in wound age estimation using metabolites.The combination of matabolomics and MLP-MLP tandem model could improve the accuracy of inferring the time interval after injury.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jian Li
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Liangliang Wang
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Kang Ren
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Qiuxiang Du
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Keming Yun
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Yingyuan Wang
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
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10
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Wenzlow N, Mills D, Byrd J, Warren M, Long MT. Review of the current and potential use of biological and molecular methods for the estimation of the postmortem interval in animals and humans. J Vet Diagn Invest 2023; 35:97-108. [PMID: 36744749 PMCID: PMC9999395 DOI: 10.1177/10406387231153930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
We provide here an overview of the state of applied techniques in the estimation of the early period of the postmortem interval (PMI). The biological methods included consist of body cooling, CSF potassium, body cooling combined with CSF potassium, and tissue autolysis. For each method, we present its application in human and veterinary medicine and provide current methodology, strengths, and weaknesses, as well as target areas for improvement. We examine current and future molecular methods as they pertain to DNA and primarily to messenger RNA degradation for the estimation of the PMI, as well as the use of RNA in aging wounds, aging blood stains, and the identification of body fluids. Various types of RNA have different lengths, structures, and functions in cells. These differences in RNAs determine various intrinsic properties, such as their half-lives in cells, and, hence, their decay rate as well as their unique use for specific forensic tests. Future applications and refinements of RNA-based techniques provide opportunities for the use of molecular methods in the estimation of PMI and other general forensic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanny Wenzlow
- Louisiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - DeEtta Mills
- Department of Biological Sciences and International Forensic Research Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jason Byrd
- Maples Center for Forensic Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Mike Warren
- Maples Center for Forensic Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Maureen T. Long
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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11
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Maiese A, Manetti AC, Santoro P, Del Duca F, De Matteis A, Turillazzi E, Frati P, Fineschi V. FOXO3 Depletion as a Marker of Compression-Induced Apoptosis in the Ligature Mark: An Immunohistochemical Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021396. [PMID: 36674912 PMCID: PMC9866130 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most challenging issues in forensic pathology is lesion vitality demonstration, particularly in cases of hanging. Over the past few years, immunohistochemistry has been applied to this field with promising results. In particular, protein and transcription factors involved in the apoptotic process have been studied as vitality markers for the ligature mark. This study represents an implementation of our previous studies on ligature mark vitality demonstration. In this study, we evaluated the FOXO3 expression in post-mortem cervical skin samples through an immunohistochemical analysis. To evaluate FOXO3 expression, anti-FOXO3 antibodies (GTX100277) were used. The study group comprised 21 cases, 8 women and 13 men, whereas the control group consisted of 13 cases of subjects who died due to other causes. Decomposition and no clear circumstantial data were exclusion criteria. We found that FOXO3 is decreased in hanging cases compared with normal skin in other causes of death (p-value < 0.05). No differences were seen concerning the type of hanging material (hard or soft), type of hanging (complete or incomplete), and position of the knot. Our results suggest that FOXO3 depletion could be a valid immunohistochemical marker of ligature mark vitality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniello Maiese
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, PI, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Alice Chiara Manetti
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, PI, Italy
| | - Paola Santoro
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Fabio Del Duca
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Alessandra De Matteis
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Emanuela Turillazzi
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, PI, Italy
| | - Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, RM, Italy
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12
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Tarín JJ, García-Pérez MA, Cano A. It Is Premature to Use Postmortem Sperm for Reproductive Purposes: a Data-Driven Opinion. Reprod Sci 2022; 29:3387-3393. [PMID: 35146695 PMCID: PMC9734227 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00874-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Postmortem sperm retrieval for reproductive purposes is an assisted reproduction procedure that offers women an opportunity to have a child using sperm retrieved from their deceased partners. The ethical issues of this procedure have been discussed in previous works. However, an assessment of the procedure using a scientific perspective is still lacking. Here, we aim to ascertain, using a biological standpoint, whether postmortem sperm should be rescued for reproductive purposes. Data suggest that it is premature to use postmortem sperm for reproductive purposes. This procedure should not be clinically applied until appropriate and comprehensive analyses have been completed. Such analyses should be focused not only on fertilization, embryo development, and pregnancy outcomes, but also on potential postmortem alterations of sperm DNA, RNAs, and proteins. In addition, genetic and epigenetic analyses of sperm, pre-implantation embryos, and newborns, as well as mental and physical health follow-up of the resulting offspring during a whole life cycle, using appropriate non-human mammalian models, are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan J Tarín
- Department of Cellular Biology, Functional Biology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Valencia, Dr. Moliner 50, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain.
- Institute of Health Research INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Miguel A García-Pérez
- Institute of Health Research INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Valencia, Dr. Moliner 50, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Cano
- Institute of Health Research INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
- Service of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Clinic Hospital, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibañez 17, 46010, Valencia, Spain
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13
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Chen YJ, Hsu CT, Tsai SF, Chen CH. Association between Circulating MicroRNAs (miR-21-5p, miR-20a-5p, miR-29b-3p, miR-126-3p and miR-101-3p) and Chronic Allograft Dysfunction in Renal Transplant Recipients. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012253. [PMID: 36293110 PMCID: PMC9603156 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic allograft dysfunction (CAD) is a major condition affecting long-term kidney graft survival. Serum microRNA (miRNA) has been reported as a biomarker for various conditions of allograft injuries. The upregulation of miR-21 is the best-known miRNA change in graft tissue, urine and plasma. However, the correlation of plasma miR-21 with the severity of CAD remains unclear. In our study, 40 kidney transplantation recipients with late graft survival for more than 10 years were enrolled. The CAD group (n = 20) had either an eGFR between 15 to 60 mL/min or a biopsy-proved chronic allograft nephropathy or rejection. The control group (n = 20) had an eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min without proteinuria and hematuria for a consecutive 3 months before the study. We performed RNA sequencing to profile the miRNAs expression. There were six differentially expressed miRNAs in the CAD group. Among them, miR-21-5p and miR-101-3p were decreased, and miR-20a-5p was increased. We found that miR-21-5p, miR-20a-5p and miR-101-3p all participated in the TGF-beta pathway. We demonstrated that decreased miR-21-5p and miR-101-3p, and increased miR-20a-5p were the novel CAD-associated miRNAs in the TGF-beta pathway. These findings may pave the way for developing early prediction miRNAs biomarkers for CAD, and possibly developing therapeutic tools in the field of kidney transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jen Chen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407219, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Tien Hsu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407219, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Feng Tsai
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407219, Taiwan
- Department of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 407224, Taiwan
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hsu Chen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407219, Taiwan
- Department of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 407224, Taiwan
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 651012, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-4-23592525 (ext. 3040)
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14
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Wu H, Li Z, Liang X, Chen R, Yu K, Wei X, Wang G, Cai W, Li H, Sun Q, Wang Z. Pathological and ATR-FTIR spectral changes of delayed splenic rupture and medical significance. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2022; 278:121286. [PMID: 35526439 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2022.121286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic delayed splenic rupture often follows by a "latent period" without typical symptoms after injury. During this period, though there are no obvious symptoms, the injury is still present and changing. In this study, we constructed an SD rat model of delayed splenic rupture; evaluated the model by HE staining, Perl's staining, Masson trichrome staining and immunohistochemical staining; observed the pathological changes of spleen tissue in delayed splenic rupture at different times after splenic injury; we found that pathological change of injured tissues were different from non-injured, and has phases-change patterns, it can be roughly divided into three phases: 2-7 d, 10-14 d, and 18-28.We then investigated the relationship between the pathological changes and FTIR spectroscopy by chemometric methods. The main distinction of injured and non-injured tissue was the protein secondary structure of amide I, and the main distinctions of different phases of delayed splenic rupture were protein secondary structures and content of amide I and amide II.A classification model developed by SVM-DA was used to infer three phases (2-7 days, 10-12 days and 14-28 days). According to the most probable class, the accuracy of external validation is 96.7%. The results indicate that FTIR spectroscopy combined with various types of pathological staining has a potential for forensic identification and can provide theoretical support and diagnostic reference on clinical persistent injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wu
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Zefeng Li
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Xinggong Liang
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Run Chen
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Kai Yu
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Xin Wei
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Gongji Wang
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Wumin Cai
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Huiyu Li
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Qinru Sun
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China.
| | - Zhenyuan Wang
- Department of Forensic Pathology, College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China.
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15
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Common Ground between Biological Rhythms and Forensics. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11071071. [PMID: 36101448 PMCID: PMC9312156 DOI: 10.3390/biology11071071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Biological clocks regulate the timing of numerous body functions in adaption to daily repeating cycles in the environment, such as the sleep–wake phases that are trained by the cycling changes of night and day light. The identification of a deceased victim is a critical component in a forensic investigation, but it can be significantly hampered by the condition of the dead body and the lack of personal records and documents. This review links current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms of biological rhythms to forensically relevant aspects, including the time period since death, cause of death, the use of insects for forensics, sex and age of a person, ethnic background and development. Putting these findings in context demonstrates how the analysis of molecular clock analysis could be used as tool for future personal identification in forensic investigations. Abstract Biological clocks set the timing for a large number of essential processes in the living human organism. After death, scientific evidence is required in forensic investigations in order to collect as much information as possible on the death circumstances and personal identifiers of the deceased victim. We summarize the associations between the molecular mechanisms of biological rhythms and forensically relevant aspects, including post-mortem interval and cause of death, entomological findings, sex, age, ethnicity and development. Given their importance during lifetime, biological rhythms could be potential tools to draw conclusions on the death circumstances and the identity of a deceased person by mechanistic investigations of the different biological clocks in a forensic context. This review puts the known effects of biological rhythms on the functions of the human organism in context with potential applications in forensic fields of interest, such as personal identification, entomology as well as the determination of the post-mortem interval and cause of death.
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16
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Teoh SL, Das S. MicroRNAs in Various Body Fluids and its importance in Forensic Medicine. Mini Rev Med Chem 2022; 22:2332-2343. [PMID: 35240957 DOI: 10.2174/1389557522666220303141558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of noncoding RNAs which regulate gene expression. miRNAs have tissue-specific expression and are also present in various extracellular body fluids, including blood, tears, semen, vaginal fluid and urine. Additionally, expression of miRNAs in body fluids is linked to various pathological diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Examination of body fluids is important in forensic medicine as they serve as a valuable form of evidence. Due to its stability, miRNA offers an advantage for body fluid identification, which can be detected even after several months or from compromised samples. Identification of unique miRNA profiles for different body fluids enable the identification of these body fluid. Furthermore, miRNAs profiling can be used to estimate post-mortem interval. Various biochemical and molecular methods have been used for identification of miRNAs have shown promising results. We discuss different miRNAs as specific biomarkers and their clinical importance regarding different pathological conditions, as well as their medico-legal importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong Lin Teoh
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Srijit Das
- Department of Human & Clinical Anatomy, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Sultanate of Oman
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17
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Maiese A, Del Duca F, Santoro P, Pellegrini L, De Matteis A, La Russa R, Frati P, Fineschi V. An Overview on Actual Knowledge About Immunohistochemical and Molecular Features of Vitality, Focusing on the Growing Evidence and Analysis to Distinguish Between Suicidal and Simulated Hanging. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 8:793539. [PMID: 35096882 PMCID: PMC8795912 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.793539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In forensic practice, the pathologist is often asked to determine whether a hanging was committed as suicide or as a simulated hanging (when a dead body is suspended after death). When exterior evidence of violence is absent and the crime scene investigation fails to identify useful proof, it is nearly impossible to tell whether the dead body was suspended or not. As a result, determining whether the ligature mark was created during life or not should rely on the research and demonstration of vital reactions on the ligature mark. The main purpose of this review article is to provide a summary of current knowledge about the histological and immunohistochemical characteristics of vitality in hanging. The authors also aim to identify the most significant vitality markers on ligature marks for further scientific validation and to propose a standardized diagnostic protocol for hanging. The study was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review (PRISMA) Protocol. Relevant scientific papers were found from PubMed up to April 2021, using the following keywords: hanging AND skin AND vitality. Three main points were studied: ligature mark dehydration, immunological response to mechanical injury, and apoptosis induction as a result of the previous points. An increase in apoptosis is evident in the ligature mark (due to physical and chemical processes involved), as demonstrated by FLICE-inhibitory protein (FLIP) depletion. Immunohistochemical detection of Aquaporin 3 (AQP3) and increase in the concentration of different electrolytes rely solely on ligature mark dehydration. Also, microRNAs (MiRNAs) could become reliable forensic biomarkers for ligature mark vitality diagnosis in the near future. To ensure high reliability in court cases, forensic investigation in hanging should rely on modern and proven markers, even a mix of several markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniello Maiese
- Section of Legal Medicine, S. Chiara Hospital, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabio Del Duca
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Science, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Santoro
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Science, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Lavinia Pellegrini
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Science, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra De Matteis
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Science, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Science, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Science, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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18
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De Simone S, Giacani E, Bosco MA, Vittorio S, Ferrara M, Bertozzi G, Cipolloni L, La Russa R. The Role of miRNAs as New Molecular Biomarkers for Dating the Age of Wound Production: A Systematic Review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 8:803067. [PMID: 35096893 PMCID: PMC8795691 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.803067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The timing of wounds production is a significant issue in forensic pathology. Although various methods have been evaluated, obtaining an accurate dating of lesions is still a challenge. The pathologist uses many parameters to value wound age, such as histological and immunohistochemical. In recent years, there have been many studies regarding the use of miRNAs in wound-age estimation; indeed, miRNAs have multiple potential uses in forensic pathology. SCOPE This review aims to verify the efficacy and feasibility of miRNAs as a tool for determining the timing of lesions. MATERIALS AND METHODS The authors conducted the systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. PubMed was used as a search engine to find articles published between January, 1st 2016 and October, 1st 2021, to evaluate the current state of the art regarding wound-age estimation. RESULTS A total of 256 articles were collected; after screening according to PRISMA guidelines, the systematic review included 8 articles. The studies included in this review were all Original articles evaluating the use of biomarkers for wound-age determination. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The literature review showed that analysis of miRNA is an innovative field of study with significant potentiality in forensic pathology. There are few studies, and almost all of them are at an early stage. The challenge is to understand how to standardize the samples' selection to obtain reliable experimental data. This observation represents a necessary prerequisite to planning further clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania De Simone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Elena Giacani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Maria Antonella Bosco
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Simona Vittorio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Ferrara
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bertozzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Luigi Cipolloni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Raffaele La Russa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
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19
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Manetti AC, Maiese A, Baronti A, Mezzetti E, Frati P, Fineschi V, Turillazzi E. MiRNAs as New Tools in Lesion Vitality Evaluation: A Systematic Review and Their Forensic Applications. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1731. [PMID: 34829960 PMCID: PMC8615694 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Wound vitality demonstration is one of the most challenging fields in forensic pathology. In recent years, researchers focused on the application of histological and immunohistochemical staining in this sphere of study. It is based on the detection of inflammation, red cell infiltration, and tissue alterations at the histological examination, all of which are supposedly present in antemortem rather than post-mortem wounds. Nevertheless, some doubts about the reliability of those markers have arisen. Furthermore, the lack of a standardized protocol and the operator dependency of this approach make the proper interpretation of its results difficult. Moreover, a differential miRNAs expression has been demonstrated in antemortem and post-mortem wounds. Herein, a systematic review concerning the current knowledge about the use of miRNAs in lesion vitality evaluation is carried out, to encourage researchers to deepen this peculiar study area. A compendium about the potential miRNAs that may be further investigated as vitality markers is also provided. The aim is to collect all available data about this topic to direct further studies on this field and highlight the future applications of miRNAs in forensic pathology. We found 20 articles and a total of 51 miRNAs that are involved in inflammation and wound healing. Further studies are certainly needed to deepen the role of miRNAs in inflammatory processes in lesioned skin and to evaluate their reliability in distinguishing between antemortem and post-mortem lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Chiara Manetti
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.C.M.); (A.M.); (A.B.); (E.M.); (E.T.)
| | - Aniello Maiese
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.C.M.); (A.M.); (A.B.); (E.M.); (E.T.)
| | - Arianna Baronti
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.C.M.); (A.M.); (A.B.); (E.M.); (E.T.)
| | - Eleonora Mezzetti
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.C.M.); (A.M.); (A.B.); (E.M.); (E.T.)
| | - Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00186 Rome, Italy;
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00186 Rome, Italy;
| | - Emanuela Turillazzi
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.C.M.); (A.M.); (A.B.); (E.M.); (E.T.)
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20
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Cheng XJ, Li L, Xin BQ. MiR-124 Regulates the Inflammation and Apoptosis in Myocardial Infarction Rats by Targeting STAT3. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2021; 21:710-720. [PMID: 34037971 DOI: 10.1007/s12012-021-09661-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to discover the effect of miR-124/STAT3 axis on the inflammation and cell apoptosis in myocardial infarction (MI) rats. Sprague-Dawley (SD) male rats were selected for establishing MI models and divided into Sham, MI, MI + anti-miR-124 and MI + Ad-miR-124 groups. Cardiac function was detected via echocardiography. Hematoxylin & eosin (HE) and triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining were used to observe the pathological changes and infarction area, while transferase (TdT)-mediated D-UTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay was to observe myocardial apoptosis. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines. Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting were performed to determine the mRNA and protein levels, respectively. Dual luciferase reporter gene assay revealed that STAT3 was a target gene of miR-124. The expression levels of miR-124 were increased and the pSTAT3/STAT3 ratio was reduced in the MI rats. The rats in the MI group showed enhanced LVEDD and LVESD, reduced LVEF and LVFS, as well as larger myocardial infarction area compared with the Sham group, Besides, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and MCP-1 levels were elevated and the expressions of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and cleaved caspase-3 were downregulated in MI group. We further found that silencing miR-124 improved cardiac function, reduced infarction area and the levels of inflammatory cytokines, as well as prevented myocardial apoptosis in MI rats. Silencing miR-124 could inhibit the inflammation and apoptosis of myocardial cells, thereby relieving the MI injury via upregulation of STAT3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jing Cheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Rizhao People's Hospital, No. 126, Taian Road, Donggang District, Rizhao, 276800, Shandong, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Rizhao People's Hospital, No. 126, Taian Road, Donggang District, Rizhao, 276800, Shandong, China
| | - Ben-Qiang Xin
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Rizhao People's Hospital, No. 126, Taian Road, Donggang District, Rizhao, 276800, Shandong, China.
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21
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Mondello C, Stassi C, Minutoli L, Baldino G, Alibrandi A, Spatola GF, Uzzo ML, Micali A, Puzzolo D, Asmundo A, Ventura Spagnolo E. Caspase 9 and Caspase 3 Immunohistochemical Pattern in Skeletal and Cardiac Muscles at Different Times after Death: An Experimental Study on PMI Estimation. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11061062. [PMID: 34207610 PMCID: PMC8229155 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11061062] [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: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The estimation of the post mortem interval (PMI) is a challenge for forensic pathologists because data emerging from methods commonly applied are not always conclusive, since several conditions exist that may affect the reliability of these parameters. Thus, new approaches have been proposed to overcome such a limit. In recent years, several studies have been performed on proteins analyzing their expression/degradation patterns in relation to the progressing of the post mortem interval. (2) Methods: The immunoreactivity patterns of two apoptosis mediators—Caspase 9 and Caspase 3—have been tested in order to evaluate their potential role as markers of the post mortem interval. The immunohistochemical analysis was performed on samples of skeletal and cardiac muscles obtained from rats at 0, 4, 8, 12, 24 and 72 h after death. (3) Results: The observed immunoreactivity patterns of both Caspase 9 and Caspase 3 showed a significant correlation with increasing post mortem interval either in skeletal or cardiac muscles, while the comparison of the immunoreactivity patterns of the two apoptotic mediators within each tissue appeared consistent with a preliminary activation of the “initiator” Caspase 9, which, in turn, subsequently activates the “executioner” Caspase 3. (4) Conclusion: The different expressions and decrease immunohistochemically observed on both caspases with progressing PMI support the usefulness of the combined analysis for post mortem interval estimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Mondello
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.M.); (A.M.); (D.P.); (A.A.)
| | - Chiara Stassi
- Legal Medicine Section, Department for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Letteria Minutoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Gennaro Baldino
- Legal Medicine Section, Department for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Angela Alibrandi
- Unit of Statistical and Mathematical Sciences, Department of Economics, University of Messina, Via dei Verdi 75, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Francesco Spatola
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BiND), University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.F.S.); (M.L.U.)
| | - Maria Laura Uzzo
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BiND), University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.F.S.); (M.L.U.)
| | - Antonio Micali
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.M.); (A.M.); (D.P.); (A.A.)
| | - Domenico Puzzolo
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.M.); (A.M.); (D.P.); (A.A.)
| | - Alessio Asmundo
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.M.); (A.M.); (D.P.); (A.A.)
| | - Elvira Ventura Spagnolo
- Legal Medicine Section, Department for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.S.); (G.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3496465532
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