Mikrobilääketiede

Mikrobilääketiede, often translated as microbial forensics, is an interdisciplinary field that applies the principles and techniques of microbiology to investigate criminal or terrorist activities. It focuses on the identification, characterization, and tracing of microorganisms that may have been used as biological weapons or have been left behind at a crime scene. This field bridges the gap between microbiology, genetics, toxicology, and forensic science.

The primary goal of mikrobilääketiede is to provide actionable intelligence and evidence in cases involving intentional or accidental release of pathogenic microorganisms. This can involve identifying the specific strain of a bacterium or virus, determining its geographic origin, and understanding its genetic modifications, if any. Techniques commonly employed include DNA sequencing and analysis, such as whole-genome sequencing, to create unique genetic fingerprints of microbes. Isotope ratio mass spectrometry can also be used to determine the geographic origin of a biological sample based on the ratios of stable isotopes.

Mikrobilääketiede plays a crucial role in attribution efforts, helping investigators determine who might be responsible for a bioterrorism attack by linking the recovered agent to a specific source or laboratory. It also aids in understanding the spread and containment of biological agents, which is vital for public health responses and post-incident investigations. The field is continuously evolving with advancements in molecular biology and bioinformatics, enhancing its capabilities in identifying and tracing even minute biological traces.