Lipidomics in forensic science: a comprehensive review of applications in drugs, alcohol, latent fingermarks, fire debris, and seafood authentication

Abstract

Forensic science, an interdisciplinary field encompassing the collection, examination, and presentation of evidence in legal proceedings, has recently embraced lipidomics as a valuable tool. Lipidomics, a subfield of metabolomics, specializes in the analysis of lipid structures and functions, offering insights into biological processes that can aid forensic investigations. While not a substitute for DNA analysis in personal identification, lipidomics complements this technique by focusing on small biological molecules, with distinct sample requirements. This review comprehensively explores the current applications of lipidomics in forensic science. The review commences with an introduction to the concept and historical background of lipidomics, subsequently delving into its utilization in diverse areas such as drug analysis, ethyl alcohol and substitute assessment, latent fingermark detection, fire debris analysis, and seafood authentication. By showcasing the various biological materials and methods employed, this review underscores the potential of lipidomics as a powerful adjunct in forensic investigations.