Thanatomicrobiome in forensic medicine.

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Microbiology
• Post-mortem Interval Estimation

Background:

• Estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI) is crucial in forensic investigations but challenging, especially with decomposition.
• Current PMI estimation techniques have limitations, necessitating complementary or alternative methods.
• Microbial community dynamics on decomposing corpses are increasingly recognized for their forensic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing research on microbial communities in forensic science.
• To explore the sources and dynamics of microorganisms on human corpses.
• To assess the utility of microbial analysis for post-mortem interval estimation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on microbial succession and decomposition.
• Analysis of microbial sources within different parts of a human corpse.
• Evaluation of current and emerging microbial techniques for PMI determination.

Main Results:

• Microbial communities on corpses originate from various sources and change predictably with decomposition.
• Specific microbial profiles correlate with different post-mortem intervals.
• The study highlights the potential of microbial analysis as a complementary forensic tool.

Conclusions:

• Microbial community analysis offers a promising avenue for improving post-mortem interval estimation.
• Understanding microbial dynamics on corpses can aid forensic investigations.
• Further research into microbial forensics can lead to more reliable and cost-effective PMI determination methods.