Application of Microbiome in Forensics: A Critical Review

Forensic Microbiology is noted as an emerging sector in forensic science research, and the demand for its application is increasing. Its use plays a pivotal role in refining the evidence used in criminal investigations; for example, in estimating post-mortem intervals, the cause of death, and characterizing clandestine burials. The use of such advanced strategies in recent years has been made possible through the integration of two sectors, microbiology and forensic science research. In this respect, this article reviews the forensic utility of microbial populations supported by advances in sequencing and bioinformatics in the context of its various applications, such as microbial profiling for identification, estimating the postmortem interval, analyzing the cause of death, characterizing trace evidence, detecting clandestine burials. The limitations and future prospects of Forensic Microbiology are also investigated. The various inferences reviewed in this article can be used to develop specific guidelines for the ongoing development of efficient strategies employed in criminal investigations.