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The potential of using non-coding RNAs in forensic science applications
Yawen Li1, Zhuoqun Wang1, Dikeledi Ishmael1
1School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China.
Forensic Sciences Research
|August 25, 2023
Summary
Forensic science is exploring non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) like microRNAs for applications such as determining time since death and identifying body fluids. This review evaluates current research and future potential for these regulatory molecules in forensics.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNA, long non-coding RNA, and circular RNA, are increasingly recognized for their regulatory roles.
- Forensic scholars are actively investigating the potential of ncRNAs in various forensic applications.
- The integration of molecular biology techniques offers new avenues for forensic investigations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing literature on the application of ncRNAs in forensic science.
- To evaluate the current research status of ncRNAs in key forensic fields.
- To provide insights and perspectives on future applications of ncRNAs in forensic science.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies utilizing ncRNAs in forensic science.
- Analysis of research focusing on microRNA, long non-coding RNA, and circular RNA.
- Synthesis of findings across different forensic disciplines.
Main Results:
- ncRNAs show promise in postmortem interval determination.
- Wound age estimation is an emerging area for ncRNA analysis.
- Forensic age assessment and body fluid identification are also being explored using ncRNAs.
- ncRNAs may contribute to cause of death analysis.
Conclusions:
- ncRNAs represent a rapidly developing area in forensic science.
- Further research is needed to fully realize the potential of ncRNAs in forensic applications.
- ncRNAs offer novel molecular tools for advancing forensic investigations.
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