Environmental bioprinting in forensic pathology: applications in DNA preservation and forensic identification

Bioprinting is an advanced technology that enables the fabrication of complex three-dimensional (3D) biological structures by layering bio-inks embedded with cells to replicate natural tissues. Environmental bioprinting, an emerging field at the intersection of biotechnology and forensic science, presents new possibilities for forensic pathology by recreating biological tissues under specific environmental conditions. This narrative review explores how environmental bioprinting can enhance forensic investigations by generating tissue models that mimic real-world environmental influences such as temperature fluctuations, chemical exposure, and decomposition processes. Special attention is given to the resilience of dental pulp DNA, which remains intact under extreme environmental conditions, making it a crucial element in forensic identification. The review also examines how early childhood diet and dental structures contribute to forensic profiling by providing insights into an individual’s nutritional background and regional influences. By leveraging bioprinting technology, forensic scientists can improve the accuracy of tissue reconstruction, DNA preservation, and forensic biometrics, especially in challenging cases involving mass disasters and unidentified mortal remains. This narrative review synthesizes existing literature on environmental bioprinting’s forensic applications, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize forensic pathology by offering a controlled, replicable model for biological tissue analysis.