Microbiology and postmortem interval: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Microbiology
• Postmortem Interval Estimation

Background:

• Accurate postmortem interval (PMI) estimation is crucial in forensic investigations.
• Current PMI methods have limitations, necessitating novel approaches.
• The human microbiome represents a dynamic biological system influenced by environmental factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the scientific literature on the utility of the human microbiome for estimating the postmortem interval (PMI).
• To explore the potential of microbial community dynamics in predicting the time elapsed since death.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted on the PubMed database.
• Predefined data fields and keywords were utilized for article selection.
• Exclusion criteria included reviews, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, resulting in 14 selected papers.

Main Results:

• Microorganisms in the cadaveric island exhibit predictable successional patterns over time.
• Specific microbial markers correlate with different decomposition stages.
• These microbial shifts show potential as innovative tools for PMI estimation.

Conclusions:

• The human microbiome holds significant potential for PMI estimation.
• Microbial communities offer advantages due to their presence in diverse environments and predictable responses to changes.
• This approach could provide a reliable and versatile method for determining time since death.