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The Role of AFB1, OTA, TCNs, and Patulin in Forensic Sciences: Applications in Autopsy, Criminal Investigations, and Public Health Prevention

Summary

This research examines how dangerous fungal poisons (mycotoxins) found in contaminated food can be detected in deceased individuals during autopsies. These toxins, produced by common molds, can cause serious health problems including liver cancer, kidney disease, and immune system damage. The study proposes procedures for forensic investigators to collect and analyze these toxins from body tissues and fluids to help solve cases involving poisoning or chronic toxin exposure.

Background

Mycotoxins (aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A, trichothecenes, and patulin) are secondary metabolites produced by fungi that contaminate food and cause severe health effects in humans. These toxins have known carcinogenic, hepatotoxic, nephrotoxic, and mutagenic properties. Despite extensive toxicological research, the application of mycotoxin analysis in forensic sciences and post-mortem investigations remains poorly understood.

Objective

This review evaluates the medico-legal implications of mycotoxins and their potential role in forensic sciences, particularly in autopsy case studies investigating acute and chronic mycotoxin exposure. The study explores detection methods, forensic applications, and the possibility of extracting and quantifying mycotoxins from cadaverous tissues and post-mortem fluids.

Results

The review identified limited forensic autopsy case studies but documented multiple instances of mycotoxin detection in post-mortem samples, including aflatoxins in brain and organ tissues. Advanced analytical techniques (HPLC-MS/MS, DLLME) successfully detected and quantified mycotoxins in various biological matrices. A comprehensive autopsy protocol was developed for investigating suspected mycotoxin-related deaths.

Conclusion

Mycotoxin analysis in post-mortem investigations can provide crucial forensic evidence in cases of suspected poisoning and chronic exposure. Establishing standardized protocols and harmonizing regulatory standards globally could enhance the role of mycotoxicology in forensic science alongside existing forensic botany and microbiology practices.
  • Published in:Toxins (Basel),
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.3390/toxins16120514, PMID: 39728772
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