The untapped potential of magnetic nanoparticles for forensic investigations: A comprehensive review

With a growing interest in precise and sensitive diagnosis for criminal investigations, nanoparticles (NPs) have intrigued scientific minds working in the field of forensic science due to their exceptional properties. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have emerged as a powerful tool for improving forensic analysis due to their super magnetic behavior combined with smaller dimensions. MNP-based applications can benefit criminologists to solve criminal mysteries with greater precision and pace. This review highlights the different types of MNP-based applications and their developmental and implicational aspects of forensic science. It also renders insight into the future prospects of a splendid blend of nanotechnology and forensic science, leading to a better scientific analysis. The magnetic nanoparticles have been employed as a versatile tool in various forensic applications and investigation. [Display omitted] •The applications of magnetic nanoparticle in forensic investigation have been reviewed.•The MNPs based detection and isolation of cellular components in forensic sciences have been explored.•MNPs can be employed as a powerful tool in latent fingerprinting and defense and security purpose.•The challenges and possible future prospects of MNPs in forensic research have been critiqued.