EVIDENTIAL VALUE AND POTENTIAL USES OF NITROPLAST ORGANELLES IN UNDERWATER FORENSIC CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATIONS

Document Type : Original Article

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Institute of Forensic Sciences

Abstract

Background: Candidatus Atelocyanobacterium thalassa (UCYN-A) is a newly identified cyanobacterial symbiont with potential forensic applications, particularly in underwater investigations. Due to the rapid deterioration of biological evidence in aquatic environments, the identification of stable biomarkers such as nitroplast organelles could improve forensic analyses. Objective: This narrative review aims to evaluate the utility of nitroplast organelles, such as UCYN-A, as biological evidence in underwater crime scene investigations. Methodology: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2024 were analyzed for their forensic relevance, focusing on the detection methods and environmental stability of nitroplast organelles. Results: Nitroplast organelles were detected in respiratory fluids, stomach contents, and under-fingernail residues in saltwater drowning cases. Their presence in these sites provides valuable information about the salinity of the environment and the duration of exposure. Conclusion: The findings suggest that nitroplast organelles can serve as reliable biomarkers in underwater forensic investigations. However, further experimental validation and standardization of forensic protocols are required for their routine use.

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The Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences and Applied Toxicology
Volume 25, Issue 3
September 2025
Pages 29-41

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