Estimation of Postmortem Interval by Light and Electron Microscopic Findings in the Liver of Adult Male Albino Rats

Background: Estimating the postmortem interval (PMI) is one of the most challenging tasks and difficult longstanding problems in forensic practice from ancient times up to the present. PMI is paramount in daily forensic casework, as it can help with the identification of human remains and assist in death investigations. The light microscope remains the most important tool for the study of cell microstructures by using a light beam. An electron microscope (EM) is a powerful sensitive technique for tissue imaging, that is used for estimating PMI. The electron microscope uses a beam of electrons instead of a light beam. The aim of the study is to estimate the postmortem interval (PMI) in experimental adult male albino rats by studying the histological changes in the liver using light and transmission electron microscope (TEM) techniques. Methods: Thirty male albino rats were randomly divided into six groups (five rats each). All rats (30 rats) were sacrificed by cervical dislocation simultaneously. The liver was obtained from each rat group at different PM time points as follows: group 1 (Control group): at the moment of death. Group 2: half-hour PMI. Group 3: one-hour PMI. Group 4: two hours PMI. Group 5: four hours PMI. Group 6: six hours PMI. Results are obtained by light and electron microscopic examinations. The light microscopic changes were observed as early as 30 minutes since the death. In contrast, the ultra-structurally significant difference in morphology was observed in more detail from 30 minutes and increased in time dependent manner till complete homogenization at 6 hours intervals. Conclusion: Light and electron microscopic findings of the liver tissue sample were found to be helpful in establishing the postmortem interval.