What are “forensic biomarkers” used for?

Forensic biomarkers are substances whose presence or concentration in biological samples can provide valuable insights into various biological or physiological processes. These markers can be specific compounds, proteins, or genetic materials that indicate an underlying physiological state, disease condition, or exposure to certain environmental factors. In the context of forensics, these biomarkers can help in solving crimes by linking biological evidence to individuals, revealing how substances affect the body, or identifying whether a subject has been in contact with specific toxins or drugs.

The focus of forensic biomarkers is precisely on understanding biological indicators rather than environmental impacts, material durability, or training enhancements. This is why identifying substances that indicate biological or physiological processes is a critical function in forensic investigations, allowing professionals to draw correlations between evidence and individuals involved in criminal activities.