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Epicoprostanol found in adipocere from five human autopsies
1Department of Legal Medicine, Kobe University School of Medicine, Japan. adachi@kosmicmed.kobe-u.ac.jp
Lipids
|December 16, 1997
Summary
Adipocere formation involves unique lipid changes, including hydroxy fatty acids and epicoprostanol, indicating oxidation and reduction processes during decomposition. These findings offer insights into postmortem changes and decomposition timelines.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Biochemistry
- Organic Chemistry
Background:
- Adipocere formation is a known postmortem change, particularly in submerged remains.
- Understanding the lipid composition of adipocere is crucial for forensic investigations.
Observation:
- Adipocere samples from submerged male victims (1 month to 4 years) were analyzed.
- Control samples of fresh subcutaneous fat were used for comparison.
Findings:
- Hydroxy fatty acids (10-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid, 10-hydroxyhexadecanoic acid) and 10-ketooctadecanoic acid were detected in adipocere, but not in control fat.
- Epicoprostanol, a cholesterol derivative, was identified in adipocere for the first time, suggesting both oxidation and reduction occurred.
- The accumulation of epicoprostanol over time was documented.
Implications:
- The presence of specific lipids like epicoprostanol can serve as biomarkers for adipocere formation.
- These lipid profiles provide a basis for estimating postmortem intervals in submerged cases.
- Further research can refine the use of lipid analysis in forensic taphonomy.
