Japanese team discovers 25 biomarkers for cyanide poisoning
Researchers in Japan have identified 25 new biomarkers that could revolutionize the detection of cyanide poisoning, offering sharper tools for forensic science and criminal investigations, Qazinform News Agency cites Jiji Press.
The research was conducted by Kindai University in Osaka Prefecture and the Aichi Prefectural Police Department and published in May in an international toxicology journal.
The team led by Professor Kei Zaitsu analyzed metabolic changes in mice after cyanide exposure.
They identified 25 compounds that reliably distinguish between exposed and non-exposed subjects.
Cyanide is an acutely toxic substance, historically linked to murders and terrorist attacks.
Traditional detection is difficult because cyanide levels in blood decline quickly.
These biomarkers, based on cyanide-related metabolites, could provide more reliable evidence even after direct traces fade.
Researchers plan to validate the biomarkers using human autopsy samples and other specimens.
Qazinform earler reported, researchers are uncovering new clues behind the growing incidence of colorectal cancer among people under 50, suggesting the disease may differ biologically from cases traditionally diagnosed in older adults.