Mass spectrometry based proteomics: Changing the impact of protein analysis in forensic science

Abstract

Mass spectrometry‐based proteomics, born from the invention of soft ionization, has revolutionized protein analysis. In‐depth characterization of complex and variable mixtures of proteins, such as that found at crime‐scenes, is now possible. This capability continues to expand with advancements in mass spectral instrumentation and computational power, allowing for the development of dynamic data acquisition approaches and sophisticated bioinformatics tools for data interpretation. Proteins are the major component of all biological material, as a result they have been of interest to forensic practitioners for centuries. While DNA is the gold standard for identification, proteins are able to provide contextual information about biological material not available through genomic approaches alone. Mass spectrometry‐based proteomics has expanded the breadth and ease of forensic protein analysis with several emerging applications that promise to become common place as investigative tools, particularly in forensic serology and toxicology. This includes the targeted analysis of protein biomarkers for the classification of biological tissue and fluids, the detection of protein toxins such as ricin and identification of peptide hormones such as insulin. The ability of protein analysis to leverage information from the genome has been demonstrated to achieve individual identification from biological material, an emerging technology that can be used in the absence of extractable DNA. In recent years, there has been considerable scrutiny of forensic techniques that lack objectivity and a statistical basis, an alternative molecular approach for forensic analysis that utilizes the high specificity of mass spectrometry, is a welcome addition with many potential future applications.This article is categorized under: Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Trace Evidence