[Expression of XPG Gene in Forensic Age Estimation]

Area of Science:

• Forensic science
• Molecular biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Accurate age determination is crucial in forensic investigations.
• Identifying reliable molecular markers for age estimation remains an ongoing challenge.
• The xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group G (XPG) gene plays a role in DNA repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the expression patterns of the XPG gene in a healthy Han population across different age groups.
• To analyze the correlation between XPG mRNA and protein levels with age.
• To evaluate the potential of XPG as a novel molecular indicator for forensic age determination.

Main Methods:

• Peripheral blood samples were collected from 150 healthy individuals of varying ages.
• XPG mRNA expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was quantified using real-time PCR.
• XPG protein levels in plasma were measured using ELISA.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in XPG mRNA and protein expression were observed between individuals ≤18 years old and those aged 19-45 or ≥46 years (P<0.05).
• No significant differences in XPG expression were found between the 19-45 and ≥46 age groups (P>0.05).
• No significant sex-based differences in XPG expression were detected (P>0.05).

Conclusions:

• XPG mRNA expression in PBMCs decreases with age in younger individuals.
• XPG protein expression in plasma increases with age.
• The XPG gene presents potential as a new biomarker for forensic age estimation.