Human Oral Microbiome as Forensic Biomarkers for Individual Identification- A Systematic Review

• vidhya Arumugam,  
• Vezhavendhan Nagaraj,*  
• sivaramakrishnan Muthanandam,  
• santhadevy Arumugam,  
• Dhamodharan Ramasamy

Abstract

Background: The oral microbiome is a promising and novel source of biomarkers for forensic identification. It offers distinct signatures that may differentiate individuals, sparking new avenues of research and discovery. Aim and Objective: This systematic review is meticulously designed to comprehensively consolidate current research on oral microbiome signatures in forensic contexts, leaving no stone unturned in our quest for knowledge. It focuses explicitly on microbial diversity, community structure, and specific taxa as potential markers for individual identification. Materials and Methods: To identify relevant studies published between 2014 and 2024, a comprehensive search of major scientific databases was conducted. Inclusion criteria encompassed peer-reviewed articles investigating oral microbiome diversity and specific microbial markers relevant to forensic individual identification. These studies were employed to evaluate the reliability and consistency of these biomarkers across diverse populations and environmental conditions. Results: The review included 13 studies that met the criteria, revealing significant associations between specific oral microbial taxa and individual identification. This systematic review highlighted consistent discriminatory power and stability of microbial signatures across varied populations. Conclusion: Oral microbiome analysis is promising to enhance forensic investigations by providing unique biomarkers for individual identification. However, challenges such as standardization of microbiome studies and influences of environmental factors on microbiome underscore the need for further research to validate and effectively implement oral microbiome data in forensic practice.

Keywords

Forensic Microbiome, DNA sequencing, Metagenomics, Oral Microbiome, Forensic biomarkers, Individual Identification