Yahaya Sumara Sulley1,3*, Ramadan Zakaria Danaa2,3, Florence Boatemaa Nightingale2,3, Isaac Oboakoh1,3, Lydia Quansah1,2,3
1 Department of Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences, University for Development Studies, Ghana
2 Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, University for Development Studies, Ghana
3 Dr Quansah Lab, (QLab) University for Development Studies, Ghana
Date: 21 August 2024
Background
The human skin microbiome, a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, is unique to each individual and varies by body site. This diversity has significant implications for health and forensic science, as recent research suggests that skin microbiomes can serve as unique identifiers, much like fingerprints or DNA (1).
Factors influencing the skin microbiome can be broadly categorized into intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic factors include genetics, age, gender, hormones, and immune system function, while extrinsic factors encompass lifestyle, location, hygiene, antibiotic use, and climate (2).
The presence and stability of microorganisms on an individual’s skin depend on the skin’s ability to provide a suitable ecological niche, including the necessary physical and chemical conditions such as temperature, pH, oxygen levels, and growth nutrients. Skin microbial communities not only vary by body site but also between individuals (2).
Research shows that individuals with albinism present a distinctive microbiome profile, which may offer new avenues for personal identification. For example, gram-negative bacteria are more common on the skin of individuals with albinism (3).
Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by a deficiency or absence of melanin, resulting in lighter skin, hair, and eyes. This condition is caused by mutations in genes responsible for melanin production, leading to various types of albinism (4).
In individuals with albinism, the lack of melanin, along with the resulting differences in skin physiology, may influence the microbial community (4). For example, the specific bacteria that thrive on the skin of albino individuals may be linked to the altered physical and chemical properties of their skin.
Case Box: Insights from Comparative Research
In a study conducted on African populations, it was observed that individuals affected by albinism exhibited a notably higher density of skin microflora compared to their normally pigmented counterparts. The research further highlighted that Staphylococcus was the predominant microorganism isolated from the skin, aligning with findings from other studies that consistently identify this bacterium in the majority of skin samples. Furthermore, the study revealed that gram-negative bacteria were more prevalent among individuals affected by albinism (3).
Implications for Forensic Science
The distinctive nature of the skin microbiome in individuals with albinism has important forensic implications. The skin microbiome of individuals with albinism can be used to differentiate them from individuals with normal pigmentation. This unique microbial profile can serve as a reliable identifier, providing a new dimension to forensic analysis.
The stability of the skin microbiome over time, coupled with its resistance to deliberate alteration, may make it a robust tool for personal identification. In the context of albinism and normal skin pigmentation, forensic applications of the skin microbiome involve analyzing microbial communities to link individuals to unidentified remains, crime scenes or personal belongings.
Conclusion and Future Directions
The potential of the skin microbiome for forensic identification is significant, especially when applied to unique populations such as individuals with albinism. Continued research is essential to refine these methods and validate their reliability in various forensic contexts.
Technological advancements are expected to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of microbiome analysis, bolstering its utility in forensic science. Additionally, the development of stringent ethical frameworks is necessary to regulate sample collection and usage, ensuring the practical and responsible application of skin microbiome data for forensic purposes.
Authors’ Contributions
Yahaya Sumara Sulley led the writing. Ramadan Zakaria Danaa contributed significantly to the drafting and revision stages of the manuscript. Florence Boatemaa Nightingale worked on multiple drafts and provided valuable input for the final version. Lydia Quansah and Isaac Oboakoh, supervised the entire manuscript preparation, ensuring adherence to academic standards and guiding the publication process.
References
1. Procopio N, Lovisolo F, Sguazzi G, Ghignone S, Voyron S, Migliario M, et al. “Touch microbiome” as a potential tool for forensic investigation: A pilot study. J Forensic Leg Med. 2021 Aug 1;82.
2. Grice EA, Segre JA. The skin microbiome. Nat Rev Microbiol. 2011 Apr;9(4):244–53.
3. Kiprono SK, Masenga JE, Chaula BM, Naafs B. Skin flora: Differences between people affected by Albinism and those with normally pigmented skin in Northern Tanzania-cross sectional study [Internet]. 2012. Available from: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-5945/12/12
4. Marçon CR, Maia M. Albinism: epidemiology, genetics, cutaneous characterization, psychosocial factors. An Bras Dermatol [Internet]. 2019 Sep 1 [cited 2024 Feb 24];94(5):503. Available from: /pmc/articles/PMC6857599/
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