Tracing an Attack: The Promise and Pitfalls of Microbial Forensics

Abstract

The investigation of the 2001 anthrax letter attacks in the United States gave a strong impetus to the new discipline of microbial forensics, which involves the use of sophisticated genetic, chemical and physical techniques to characterise a pathogen or toxin agent that has been used as a weapon. Microbial forensic evidence can assist in the process of attribution, or identifying the country, group, or individual responsible for a biological attack, in order to pursue legal prosecution or military retaliation. An effective attribution capability can also play an important role in deterring biological warfare and terrorism.