Forensic toxicology and Artificial intelligence: broadening horizons and growing potential

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) hold considerable promise in the domain of forensic toxicology. Such a potential has been explored for at least the last three decades in order to enhance both the efficiency and interpretability of toxicological assessments. AI technologies, including machine learning (ML), deep learning, generative AI, and expert systems, offer advanced data analysis capabilities that can substantially improve the operational practices of forensic toxicologists in the future.

The authors have drawn upon sources spanning three decades (since the 90s, when early research first explored the potential of using expert systems and neural networks for the interpretation of toxicological data), in order to outline a succinct analysis as to AI and ML applications in forensic toxicology, with a focus on the uniquely elusive and harmful New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), and identify advantages and challenges of such innovative approaches.

AI- and ML-based systems can boost efficiency by automating labor-intensive laboratory tasks, leading to significant improvements in compound detection and data processing, while minimizing human error. Therefore, while the use of AI and ML in forensic toxicology is a relatively new phenomenon, it is noteworthy how the initial significant applications have progressively surfaced as technological advancements and innovations have expanded their range of use.

Despite still lingering challenges and difficulties in the large-scale application of such techniques, AI in forensic toxicology offers considerable opportunities to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and reliability of toxicological evaluations. By harnessing AI technologies, forensic toxicologists can improve their ability to detect and examine toxic agents and substances of abuse, thereby facilitating more effective forensic inquiries and enhancing public safety. Although machines are unlikely to replace toxicologists in the near future, toxicologists who do embrace AI are expected to surpass and excel beyond their counterparts who remain resistant to such advancements.