Forensic molecular techniques and biomarkers in the differentiation between ante and post-mortem injuries

Abstract

The distinction between ante-mortem and post-mortem injuries is essential in forensic medicine, with significant implications for criminal investigations and determining the cause of death. Traditionally, this differentiation is based on morphological and histopathological criteria, which, although useful, may be insufficient in certain contexts. In this scenario, molecular techniques have emerged as complementary tools by enabling the detection and quantification of biomarkers associated with cellular vitality. This narrative review was conducted through searches on Google Scholar, PubMed, and SciELO using controlled descriptors. Original studies published between 2000 and 2025 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish were selected. The main biomarkers investigated include inflammatory cytokines, interleukins, enzymes, and proteins, whose expression levels vary according to the presence or absence of vital reactions in the injuries. The molecular techniques identified for this analysis were immunohistochemistry, ELISA, Western Blot, PCR, and RT-qPCR. The collected data were organized in comparative tables, allowing for the evaluation of each method’s advantages and limitations. It was observed that the use of these techniques enables greater accuracy in distinguishing between ante-mortem and post-mortem injuries, contributing to the clarification of forensic cases. However, further studies are needed to standardize protocols, validate the most promising biomarkers, and assess the feasibility of these techniques in forensic routine. The integration of molecular biology into forensic practice represents a promising advancement in investigating injury vitality and consolidating more accurate forensic reports.

Keywords

Biomarkers
Forensic Medicine
Molecular Biology Techniques
Molecular Biology
Biomarcadores
Medicina Legal
Técnicas moleculares Forenses
Biologia Molecular
Biomarcadores
Medicina Legal
Técnicas moleculares Forenses
Biologia Molecular

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