<p>Forensic epigenetics is an emerging subfield within forensic genetics that holds significant promise for advancing criminal investigations. By leveraging epigenetic markers like DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, this innovative approach contributes to a range of forensic applications. These include distinguishing between monozygotic twins, predicting the age of biological stains, identifying tissue sources, and estimating the age of tissue donors. However, the success of forensic epigenetics is intricately tied to the quality and quantity of the available biological samples, which can impose limitations on the scope of analysis. In this review, we delve into the rapidly evolving landscape of forensic epigenetics. We address the challenges associated with practical considerations, such as the complexities arising from multiple cell types in tissues and the need for accurate data normalization in epigenome-wide studies (EWAS). Amplification biases, the intricacies of bisulfite-converted DNA, and other potential sources of errors and biases are also explored in the context of method development, validation, and implementation. We spotlight the need for innovative strategies that can overcome these hurdles, enhance the resolution of forensic queries while accommodate real-world constraints. Furthermore, we chart a course for future perspectives, envisioning novel research inquiries, identifying emerging epigenetic markers, and embracing recent strides in technology. In doing so, we illuminate a path forward for forensic epigenetics that capitalizes on its strengths while addressing its complexities.</p>

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Navigating the path forward: exploring the promise and challenges of forensic epigenetics in modern investigations

  • Shivani Tyagi

摘要

Forensic epigenetics is an emerging subfield within forensic genetics that holds significant promise for advancing criminal investigations. By leveraging epigenetic markers like DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, this innovative approach contributes to a range of forensic applications. These include distinguishing between monozygotic twins, predicting the age of biological stains, identifying tissue sources, and estimating the age of tissue donors. However, the success of forensic epigenetics is intricately tied to the quality and quantity of the available biological samples, which can impose limitations on the scope of analysis. In this review, we delve into the rapidly evolving landscape of forensic epigenetics. We address the challenges associated with practical considerations, such as the complexities arising from multiple cell types in tissues and the need for accurate data normalization in epigenome-wide studies (EWAS). Amplification biases, the intricacies of bisulfite-converted DNA, and other potential sources of errors and biases are also explored in the context of method development, validation, and implementation. We spotlight the need for innovative strategies that can overcome these hurdles, enhance the resolution of forensic queries while accommodate real-world constraints. Furthermore, we chart a course for future perspectives, envisioning novel research inquiries, identifying emerging epigenetic markers, and embracing recent strides in technology. In doing so, we illuminate a path forward for forensic epigenetics that capitalizes on its strengths while addressing its complexities.