Sex determination using forensic DNA and focused research in forensic odontology: A systematic review

Lopez Toribio R.M.; Manrique de Lara Suarez D.A.; Chavez Leandro M.N. · Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine (2025) · DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2025.102993

Resumen

Aim: In forensic investigations, sex determination (SD) is often used in situations involving sexual assault, missing persons, transportation accidents, mass catastrophes, and more. Samples from other sources, including teeth, the victim's or anybody else's DNA, may be used to track down the body's remains. Materials and methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) quality scale was used to evaluate six databases: Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. These databases were registered under the number CRD42024534632. A total of 23 articles were eligible for screening. Genetic markers are found in the tooth pulp and dentin. PCR, nested PCR, and real-time PCR were used to examine DNA. Results: The search term yielded a total of 4672 entries. Relevance to the setting, which was evaluated by reading the abstract and having the whole text available, was one of the inclusion criteria. 51 pieces in all were chosen. After reviewing the whole text, only articles on the oral cavity and pertinent articles from the chosen references were taken into consideration. In the end, 23 items were taken into consideration. Conclusion: Most published research has demonstrated effective sex determination and DNA extraction; however, when the sample source was altered to replicate forensic settings, the success rate decreased. Reliable markers for determining sex included DYS14, alphoid repeat primers, SRY, and amelogenin. Although molecular analysis is reliable and fast, everyday forensic practice must choose the best approach based on the body remains that are accessible.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Hermilio Valdizán