Determining Time of Death - Decomposition
- Created by: Sdarby
- Created on: 01-11-16 17:03
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- Decomposition
- After death - tissues start to break down due to enzyme action
- Autolysis is first to occur - body's own enzymes from digestive tract and lysosomes break down cells
- Bacteria from the gut and gaseous exchange system rapidly invade the tissues
- Releases enzymes that result in decomposition
- Loss of oxygen in tissues is optimum for growth of anaerobic bacteria
- Environment temperature
- major influence on rate of decomposition
- Low temperatures - slower process
- Warm temperatures - speed up process
- Optimum temperature 21°C - 38°C
- Intense heat denatures enzymes involved in autolysis ? delays the start of decay
- Injuries allow entry of bacteria that can aid the process
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