Determinação de putrescina e cadaverina em cadáver mumificado

Abstract

The decomposition of human bodies is a complex process marked by various biochemical and microbiological transformations. Among these transformations, the production of nitrogenous compounds stands out due to their significant relevance in forensic investigations. Notably, biogenic amines such as cadaverine and putrescine are produced during this process as a result of amino acid degradation by bacterial action. These substances serve as chemical indicators of the decomposition stage and have potential applications in estimating the postmortem interval (PMI). This study aimed to analyze the presence and concentration of these amines in naturally mummified human tissue, using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with dansyl chloride derivatization. The analyzed samples were obtained from an unclaimed mummified corpse found in the city of Barracão, Paraná, in March 2025, with proper authorization from the Forensic Police and the Research Ethics Committee (CEP). The analysis revealed concentrations of 6.93 mg/kg of cadaverine and 6.46 mg/kg of putrescine, which are considered high for a mummified body. These findings suggest that putrefaction may have occurred significantly before complete dehydration, indicating a transition between active decomposition and preservation stages. The results support the forensic utility of biogenic amines in characterizing the decomposition stage, even in preserved bodies.