Molecular Biology in Forensic Science: Past, Present and Future

Dear Colleagues,

Molecular biology represents one of the most valuable tools currently used in bioscience, diagnostics and forensic sciences. It is important to remark that when considering the current and future trends in forensic molecular biology it is important to do so not only from the perspective of their effect within the forensic field itself, but also from the perspective of their interaction with neighboring areas of the system, such as the diagnostic field. Forensic molecular biology has developed rapidly into a comprehensive discipline in its own right and, perhaps more so than any scientific advance before it, has had a profound impact across the forensic sciences. For example, forensic DNA analysis has vastly evolved since the first forensic samples were evaluated by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Methodologies advanced from gel electrophoresis techniques to capillary electrophoresis, and now to next-generation sequencing (NGS). NGS is the newest and most revolutionary technology, and has the potential to be the next standard for genetic analysis. In the same way, applications related to the use of microRNAs (miRNAs) represent a fascinating research field for both forensic and healthcare purposes.

In this regard, this Special Issue aims to collect accurate and up-to-date scientific information on all aspects of forensic molecular biology techniques and applications that are currently used for the analysis of human and nonhuman samples, in the form of original research articles, case series and case reports, and reviews.

Dr. Francesco Sessa
Dr. Monica Salerno
Guest Editors

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