Processing and Sampling on the Integrity of Molecules in Bones
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Impact of Processing and Sampling Procedures on the Integrity of Forensically Relevant Biomolecules in Bones for Human Identification and Forensic Intelligence Purposes
IRAS ID
354674
Contact name
Noemi Procopio
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Central Lancashire
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
This study investigates how different methods used to clean and process human bones in forensic laboratories affect the biological information stored in the bones. When human remains are recovered, forensic scientists analyze DNA, proteins, and other molecules to help identify individuals, estimate how long they have been deceased (post-mortem interval, PMI), and gather other forensic intelligence. However, many forensic laboratories use harsh cleaning methods that may unknowingly damage these critical biological markers, reducing the chances of extracting useful information.
To address this issue, our study will examine how different bone cleaning and processing methods impact the integrity of biomolecules. We will work with 23 donated human cadavers at a forensic research facility in Texas, collecting samples from various bones before and after they undergo different treatments. By analyzing proteins, lipids, and metabolites using advanced scientific techniques, we aim to determine the best methods for preserving these molecules. This research will help forensic laboratories improve their protocols, ensuring that important biological evidence is not lost during routine processing.
Additionally, the study will develop new ways to estimate PMI and other forensic indicators using multi-omics approaches, including proteomics (the study of proteins) and metabolomics (the study of small molecules in the body). These findings will contribute to improving forensic investigations, helping identify unknown individuals, solve cold cases, and enhance forensic intelligence. The results will be shared with forensic scientists, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies to improve best practices and ensure that evidence collection methods maximize the information available for forensic casework.
REC name
London - Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/PR/0529
Date of REC Opinion
14 May 2025
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion