Integration of Nanophotonic sensors: For the rapid detection of biological evidences and DNA analysis in Forensic Science

Abstract Forensic science has evolved significantly over the past decades, leveraging advanced technologies to enhance the accuracy and speed of criminal investigations. One of the most promising innovations in this field is the integration of nanophotonic sensors. These sensors, which exploit the interaction of light with nanostructured materials, offer unprecedented sensitivity and specificity for detecting minute biological evidences and conducting experiments like DNA analysis. This paper explores the integration of nanophotonic sensors in forensic science, focusing on their emerging applications in the rapid detection of biological samples such as blood, saliva, and semen, as well as their use in DNA analysis for identifying individual evidences. The discussion includes a comprehensive overview of nanophotonic sensor technology, including its principles, types, and functioning mechanisms. The advantages of nanophotonic sensors, such as their high sensitivity, rapid response time, and potential for miniaturization, are emphasized. Additionally, the paper reviews recent advancements and case studies demonstrating the practical applications of these sensors in forensic investigations. Challenges as well as ethical regulations associated with their implementation, such as technological limitations, cost, and the need for standardized protocols, are also addressed. The integration of nanophotonic sensors represents a transformative advancement in forensic science, promising to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of criminal investigations and contributing to the timely and reliable administration of justice. Key words: Nanophotonic sensors, DNA analysis, Nanostructured materials, Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), PCR, Gel Electrophoresis, Quantum dot based sensors, Microfluids, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning Algorithms, Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)