Forens-omics: How a multi-omics approach can reveal the mysteries of the postmortem interval

Abstract

When a body is discovered, scientists play a crucial role in helping investigators piece together the story. They work to uncover the identity of the victim, determine the cause of death, and, most importantly, estimate the time since death. This estimation, known as the postmortem interval (PMI), can be crucial when solving a case.

Traditional methods for estimating PMI – such as analyzing body temperature or insect activity – have limitations, especially as time passes. These methods can be subjective, often lack reproducibility, and become unusable when only skeletal remains are left.

That's where the “Forens-OMICS” approach comes into play. This emerging field, led by my team at the University of Central Lancashire, uses advanced molecular techniques to study the changes that occur in a body after death.

The Forens-OMICS team employs proteomics, metabolomics, and metabarcoding (analyzing microbial populations) to identify and measure various biological molecules in human remains. By examining how proteins, metabolites, and microbes change over time, the team is working toward more accurate PMI estimates.