Abstract

This review aims to evaluate the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) as molecular biomarkers in forensic genetics and to comparatively analyze the efficiency of different miRNA isolation methods from various body fluids. A systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Publications published between 2010 and 2025 were screened in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases using the keywords “microRNA”, “forensic genetics”, “RNA isolation”, and “body fluids”. Fifty-three peer-reviewed studies met the inclusion criteria and were evaluated in terms of yield, purity, cost, and applicability of the isolation method. The comparative analysis included phenol–chloroform, column-based, magnetic bead-based, and hybrid protocols. The reviewed studies revealed that while phenol–chloroform methods provided the highest RNA yield, column-based and hybrid systems ensured superior purity and reproducibility. Magnetic bead–based techniques were advantageous for automation and reduced contamination risk. The optimal isolation method varied depending on the biological fluid type. miRNAs exhibit high stability and diagnostic potential in forensic applications such as body fluid identification, age estimation, and post-mortem interval determination. Selecting isolation methods optimized for specific biological matrices enhances analytical reliability and facilitates the integration of miRNA-based analyses into routine forensic workflows.

Key words: microRNA, forensic genetics, RNA isolation, comparative analysis