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Postmortem interval estimation through skeletal muscle protein degradation: a comprehensive review.
Arun Kori1, Aswini Chandran1, Moirangthem Sangita1,2
1Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, AIIMS Bhopal, Bhopal, India.
International Journal of Legal Medicine
|January 3, 2026
Summary
Estimating postmortem interval (PMI) using skeletal muscle protein degradation shows promise. However, single protein markers are insufficient due to variability, necessitating multifactorial approaches for reliable forensic science applications.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Biochemistry
- Proteomics
Background:
- Postmortem interval (PMI) estimation is crucial in forensic investigations.
- Skeletal muscle protein degradation is a developing biochemical marker for PMI.
- Current methods face challenges due to biological and environmental variability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent literature (2014-2024) on skeletal muscle protein degradation for PMI estimation.
- To identify commonly studied proteins and methodologies in this field.
- To highlight limitations and suggest future research directions.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive PubMed literature search using keywords for PMI estimation and protein/proteomics.
- Inclusion criteria focused on studies analyzing skeletal muscle protein degradation.
- Analysis of 17 relevant studies published between 2014 and 2024.
Main Results:
- Western blotting, mass spectrometry, and immunohistochemistry were the primary techniques used.
- Frequently studied proteins include eEF1A2, desmin, GAPDH, and various cytoskeletal proteins.
- Significant potential exists, but single or limited protein markers show insufficient reliability.
Conclusions:
- Protein degradation in skeletal muscle offers potential for PMI estimation but requires more robust methodologies.
- Further research needs to focus on long-term human tissue studies, new biomarkers, and marker stability.
- Standardized, interdisciplinary approaches are essential for integrating protein-based methods into routine forensic practice.
