Polymorphic enzymes and proteins in forensic science

Abstract

The population is evolving with time and with evolution there are certain genetic changes going on in humans, and this forms the foundation of polymorphism. In biological sciences the polymorphism implies that there are different allelic variants of one gene in different individuals. Therefore, the meaning of polymorphism directs us to link it to the forensic investigations. In this review we will start with the basics of polymorphism. The various research studies related to different polymorphic enzymes have been explored that have supported or would aid further in forensic investigation. Proteins are an essential part of the humans and other species; therefore, they also are found to have significance in forensic investigations. Examples of proteins are mentioned with suitable examples and their applications in various fields of forensic science. Forensic proteomics is a valuable tool in the field of forensic science, providing a wealth of information that can be used to identify suspects, link evidence to crime scenes, and determine the cause of death. Polymorphic enzymes and proteins have been extensively used in forensic science, as they can provide valuable information for individual identification and determination of biological relationships. The review explores how the polymorphic enzymes such as CYP family of enzymes, Red cell enzymes, phosphoglucomutase can be used to establish individuality and to determine biological stains' origin. Moreover, discussion about how polymorphisms in blood group systems, such as ABO are employed for the identification of individuals and the determination of biological relationships, including paternity testing. The use of these polymorphic markers in forensic science significantly improves the accuracy of individual identification and provide crucial evidence in many criminal investigations. Two case studies are discussed that give good example of how enzyme polymorphism had a pivotal role where even other biological and genetic methods could not help. However, it is observed that the interpretation of the results obtained from these markers must be done with care, considering factors such as population frequency and sample quality, to avoid incorrect conclusions.