Introduction

DNA analysis has long been regarded as the gold standard in forensic science for identifying individuals and resolving crimes. However, sample deterioration, contamination, or insufficient quantity may limit the use of DNA alone in some circumstances. To address these issues and improve the robustness of forensic investigations, forensic proteomics has emerged as a valuable additional technique (Ballou et al., 2013). Proteins, which are essential for organisms' biological processes, are usually more stable and plentiful in biological samples than DNA (Kontopoulos, et al., 2020). Proteins are extremely useful in forensic investigations because of their stability, especially when DNA integrity is impaired. Forensic proteomics uses modern mass spectrometry methods to provide a thorough profile and identification of proteins and their post-translational changes. These alterations can provide important information about a person's biological condition, the period since death, and the presence of certain physiological fluids at crime scenes. Furthermore, forensic proteomics is not restricted to human materials. It includes wildlife forensics, which helps identify animal species engaged in illegal trade and poaching. The capacity to examine proteins in various situations broadens the toolset accessible to forensic investigators, allowing them to identify human remains, estimate post-mortem periods, and determine causes and ways of death. As forensic science advances, the incorporation of proteomics has the potential to dramatically improve the accuracy and reliability of forensic investigations. By supplementing DNA evidence with specific protein profiles and alterations, forensic proteomics provides a more complete and nuanced approach to criminal investigation, eventually improving the pursuit of justice.

In the early twentieth century, forensic investigators began to investigate the use of protein-based approaches for identifying biological material. One of the first strategies involves using immunological tests to identify blood and other biological fluids at crime scenes. The precipitin test was very effective in distinguishing between human and animal blood, providing critical evidence in criminal trials.

Today, Forensic proteomics, a rapidly growing subject in forensic science, uses extensive protein analysis to answer challenging forensic issues. Unlike DNA, proteins are more durable and plentiful in biological samples, making them useful when DNA is destroyed, contaminated, or inadequate. This discipline uses modern mass spectrometry techniques to detect and describe proteins and their post-translational changes, giving crucial information about a person's biological condition and identity in criminal investigations. Proteomic analysis has several forensic uses. It can help identify human remains, estimate post-mortem periods, and ascertain reasons and modes of death. For example, proteins isolated from bones, teeth, and hair can indicate a person's age, gender, and even lineage.

Forensic proteomics goes beyond human biology. It includes wildlife forensics, which is critical for identifying animal species implicated in illegal trade and poaching. Proteins' resistance to varied environmental conditions enables the study of materials exposed to hostile environments, increasing the scope of forensic investigations.