Microbial toxins in forensic science: detection, classification, and biosecurity implications - a comprehensive...

Area of Science:

• Forensic microbiology
• Analytical chemistry
• Biosecurity

Background:

• Microbial toxins are a significant forensic concern due to bioterrorism, accidental exposure, and natural outbreaks.
• Effective forensic identification and characterization of these toxins are crucial for public safety and national security.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current information and techniques for identifying, characterizing, and studying microbial toxins as forensic evidence.
• To highlight emerging analytical technologies and their application in forensic toxin analysis.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of peer-reviewed articles on forensic detection of microbial toxins.
• Keyword-based search across major scientific databases focusing on forensic microbiology, toxin detection, and biosecurity.
• Analysis of toxin classification systems and advanced analytical technologies.

Main Results:

• Staphylococcal enterotoxins, clostridial toxins, and mycotoxins are key microbial toxins of forensic interest.
• Advanced detection technologies like surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and next-generation sequencing offer enhanced sensitivity and specificity.
• The CDC bioterrorism threat classification system aids in threat prioritization and response.

Conclusions:

• Forensic analysis of microbial toxins necessitates specialized capabilities, quality assurance, and multidisciplinary expertise.
• Integrating existing and novel technologies improves both routine surveillance and emergency response to microbial toxin threats.