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Granja R, Machado H. Forensic DNA phenotyping and its politics of legitimation and contestation: Views of forensic geneticists in Europe. SOCIAL STUDIES OF SCIENCE 2023; 53:850-868. [PMID: 32729409 PMCID: PMC10696903 DOI: 10.1177/0306312720945033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Forensic DNA Phenotyping (FDP) is a set of techniques that aim to infer externally visible characteristics in humans - such as eye, hair and skin color - and biogeographical ancestry of an unknown person, based on biological material. FDP has been applied in various jurisdictions in a limited number of high-profile cases to provide intelligence for criminal investigations. There are on-going controversies about the reliability and validity of FDP, which come together with debates about the ethical challenges emerging from the use of this technology in the criminal justice system. Our study explores how, in the context of complex politics of legitimation of and contestation over the use of FDP, forensic geneticists in Europe perceive this technology's potential applications, utility and risks. Forensic geneticists perform several forms of discursive boundary work, making distinctions between science and the criminal justice system, experts and non-experts, and good and bad science. Such forms of boundary work reconstruct the complex positioning vis-à-vis legal and scientific realities. In particular, while mobilizing interest in FDP, forensic geneticists simultaneously carve out notions of risk, accountability and scientific conduct that perform distance from FDP' implications in the criminal justice system.
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Advancement in Human Face Prediction Using DNA. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14010136. [PMID: 36672878 PMCID: PMC9858985 DOI: 10.3390/genes14010136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid improvements in identifying the genetic factors contributing to facial morphology have enabled the early identification of craniofacial syndromes. Similarly, this technology can be vital in forensic cases involving human identification from biological traces or human remains, especially when reference samples are not available in the deoxyribose nucleic acid (DNA) database. This review summarizes the currently used methods for predicting human phenotypes such as age, ancestry, pigmentation, and facial features based on genetic variations. To identify the facial features affected by DNA, various two-dimensional (2D)- and three-dimensional (3D)-scanning techniques and analysis tools are reviewed. A comparison between the scanning technologies is also presented in this review. Face-landmarking techniques and face-phenotyping algorithms are discussed in chronological order. Then, the latest approaches in genetic to 3D face shape analysis are emphasized. A systematic review of the current markers that passed the threshold of a genome-wide association (GWAS) of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-face traits from the GWAS Catalog is also provided using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA), approach. Finally, the current challenges in forensic DNA phenotyping are analyzed and discussed.
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Budowle B, Sajantila A. Revisiting informed consent in forensic genomics in light of current technologies and the times. Int J Legal Med 2023; 137:551-565. [PMID: 36642749 PMCID: PMC9902322 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-02947-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Informed consent is based on basic ethical principles that should be considered when conducting biomedical and behavioral research involving human subjects. These principles-respect, beneficence, and justice-form the foundations of informed consent which in itself is grounded on three fundamental elements: information, comprehension, and voluntary participation. While informed consent has focused on human subjects and research, the practice has been adopted willingly in the forensic science arena primarily to acquire reference samples from family members to assist in identifying missing persons. With advances in molecular biology technologies, data mining, and access to metadata, it is important to assess whether the past informed consent process and in particular associated risks are concomitant with these increased capabilities. Given the state-of-the-art, areas in which informed consent may need to be modified and augmented are as follows: reference samples from family members in missing persons or unidentified human remains cases; targeted analysis of an individual(s) during forensic genetic genealogy cases to reduce an investigative burden; donors who provide their samples for validation studies (to include population studies and entry into databases that would be applied to forensic statistical calculations) to support implementation of procedures and operations of the forensic laboratory; family members that may contribute samples or obtain genetic information from a molecular autopsy; and use of medical and other acquired samples that could be informative for identification purposes. The informed consent process should cover (1) purpose for collection of samples; (2) process to analyze the samples (to include type of data); (3) benefits (to donor, target, family, community, etc. as applicable); (4) risks (to donor, target, family, community, etc. as applicable); (5) access to data/reports by the donor; (6) sample disposition; (7) removal of data process (i.e., expungement); (8) process to ask questions/assessment of comprehension; (9) follow-up processes; and (10) voluntary, signed, and dated consent. Issues surrounding these topics are discussed with an emphasis on addressing risk factors. Addressing informed consent will allow human subjects to make decisions voluntarily and with autonomy as well as secure the use of samples for intended use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Budowle
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Antti Sajantila
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
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Urtiaga GO, Domingues WB, Komninou ER, Martins AWS, Blödorn EB, Dellagostin EN, Woloski RDS, Pinto LS, Brum CB, Tovo-Rodrigues L, Campos VF. DNA microarray for forensic intelligence purposes: High-density SNP profiles obtained directly from casework-like samples with and without a DNA purification step. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 332:111181. [PMID: 35042181 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
SNP analyses from a forensic intelligence perspective have proven to be an important tool to restrict the number of suspected offenders and find missing persons. DNA microarray assays have been demonstrated as a potential feature in forensic analysis, like such as forensic genetic genealogy. The objective of this study was to describe the results from DNA microarray assay from saliva samples deposited on a glass surface collected from by a double swab technique, commonly applied in crime scenes. Eighteen samples from the same person were subjected to Infinium® Global Screening Array-24 v1.0 (~642.824 SNP markers) in two different protocols - with or without the DNA purification procedure. The measured genotype was compared with a Consensus Genotype, obtained from standard control samples, and the parameters such as Call Rate and GenCall Scores were evaluated. Results showed that the Call Rate parameter is enough to estimate the probability of obtaining a correct genotype in the SNP assay. Reliable genotypes with a confidence level of more than 90% (at least 90.15%) were observed in Call Rates above 69.41%, regardless of the experimental condition. Our data demonstrate that DNA Microarray from samples collected under conditions such as those found at crime scenes can generate high-density SNP genetic profiles with a confidence level greater than 90%. Enzymatic adjustments and protocol changes may enable DNA microarray assays for crime analysis and investigation purposes eliminating the purification step in the future. Our data suggest that DNA microarray can support criminal investigation teams from a forensic intelligence perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel O Urtiaga
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil; Núcleo de Identificação, Superintendência da Polícia Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - William B Domingues
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Eliza R Komninou
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Amanda W S Martins
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Eduardo B Blödorn
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Eduardo N Dellagostin
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Rafael Dos S Woloski
- Laboratório de Bioinformática e Proteômica, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Luciano S Pinto
- Laboratório de Bioinformática e Proteômica, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Clarice B Brum
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Luciana Tovo-Rodrigues
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Vinicius F Campos
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil.
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Wienroth M, Granja R, Lipphardt V, Nsiah Amoako E, McCartney C. Ethics as Lived Practice. Anticipatory Capacity and Ethical Decision-Making in Forensic Genetics. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1868. [PMID: 34946816 PMCID: PMC8701090 DOI: 10.3390/genes12121868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Greater scrutiny and demands for innovation and increased productivity place pressures on scientists. Forensic genetics is advancing at a rapid pace but can only do so responsibly, usefully, and acceptably within ethical and legal boundaries. We argue that such boundaries require that forensic scientists embrace 'ethics as lived practice'. As a starting point, we critically discuss 'thin' ethics in forensic genetics, which lead to a myopic focus on procedures, and to seeing 'privacy' as the sole ethical concern and technology as a mere tool. To overcome 'thin' ethics in forensic genetics, we instead propose understanding ethics as an intrinsic part of the lived practice of a scientist. Therefore, we explore, within the context of three case studies of emerging forensic genetics technologies, ethical aspects of decision-making in forensic genetics research and in technology use. We discuss the creation, curation, and use of databases, and the need to engage with societal and policing contexts of forensic practice. We argue that open communication is a vital ethical aspect. Adoption of 'ethics as lived practice' supports the development of anticipatory capacity-empowering scientists to understand, and act within ethical and legal boundaries, incorporating the operational and societal impacts of their daily decisions, and making visible ethical decision making in scientific practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Wienroth
- Centre for Crime and Policing, Department of Social Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK
| | - Rafaela Granja
- Communication and Society Research Centre, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Veronika Lipphardt
- University College Freiburg, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität, 79098 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Emmanuel Nsiah Amoako
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Carole McCartney
- Science & Justice Research Interest Group, Law School, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK
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Oosthuizen T, Howes LM. The development of forensic DNA analysis: New debates on the issue of fundamental human rights. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2021; 56:102606. [PMID: 34710822 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2021.102606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Before the advent of forensic DNA profiling, forensic techniques such as fingerprint examination and blood type comparison were used in the identification of suspects. DNA profiling has since become the gold standard of forensic science, and forensic DNA analysis techniques continue to evolve. Recent developments such as familial searching and phenotyping have raised ethical questions and concerns reflecting those expressed in the late 1980s when forensic DNA analysis was first introduced. At that time, attempts to use DNA evidence in criminal trials were met with challenges to its evidential value and admissibility. A common concern was whether the probative value of the evidence would outweigh its potentially prejudicial effect. This gave rise to a complex three-way debate, which revolved around first, the admissibility of the scientific principles in criminal courts; second, the scientific process involved in analysing DNA samples; and third, the impact that forensic DNA analysis may have on fundamental human rights. Ultimately, debates about the scientific process and the admissibility of such evidence in criminal trials overshadowed the debate about potential infringements of fundamental human rights. This resulted in a lack of critical discussion around the erosion of civil liberties through the use of scientific technologies. This paper revisits the early debates on the development of forensic DNA analysis. It draws parallels with current developments and analyses the potential for current and future human rights infringements, highlighting that the libertarian model offers a necessary counterbalance to the other arguments, due to its concern for maintaining fundamental rights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tersia Oosthuizen
- University of Tasmania, Law and Education, College of Arts, School of Social Sciences, Private Bag 22, Hobart 7001, Tasmania, Australia.
| | - Loene M Howes
- University of Tasmania, Law and Education, College of Arts, School of Social Sciences, Private Bag 22, Hobart 7001, Tasmania, Australia.
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Zhang J, Fu H, Xu Y. Age Prediction of Human Based on DNA Methylation by Blood Tissues. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12060870. [PMID: 34204075 PMCID: PMC8228382 DOI: 10.3390/genes12060870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, scientists have found a close correlation between DNA methylation and aging in epigenetics. With the in-depth research in the field of DNA methylation, researchers have established a quantitative statistical relationship to predict the individual ages. This work used human blood tissue samples to study the association between age and DNA methylation. We built two predictors based on healthy and disease data, respectively. For the health data, we retrieved a total of 1191 samples from four previous reports. By calculating the Pearson correlation coefficient between age and DNA methylation values, 111 age-related CpG sites were selected. Gradient boosting regression was utilized to build the predictive model and obtained the R2 value of 0.86 and MAD of 3.90 years on testing dataset, which were better than other four regression methods as well as Horvath’s results. For the disease data, 354 rheumatoid arthritis samples were retrieved from a previous study. Then, 45 CpG sites were selected to build the predictor and the corresponded MAD and R2 were 3.11 years and 0.89 on the testing dataset respectively, which showed the robustness of our predictor. Our results were better than the ones from other four regression methods. Finally, we also analyzed the twenty-four common CpG sites in both healthy and disease datasets which illustrated the functional relevance of the selected CpG sites.
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The evolution, devolution and distribution of UK Biometric Imaginaries. BIOSOCIETIES 2021; 17:506-526. [PMID: 33968156 PMCID: PMC8097123 DOI: 10.1057/s41292-021-00231-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This article critically examines UK biometric policymaking by charting the bodies identified by the 2018 Home Office Biometric Strategy as playing key roles in the oversight of biometric data used in law enforcement and other related functions. The article argues that oversight actors are embedded in biometric imaginaries promoted by the UK Home Office and the devolved Scottish administration. By mapping oversight of UK biometrics policy together with developments in Scotland, the article challenges sociotechnical imaginaries studies which assume the power of national governments to project dominant, cohesive and instrumental visions. The article peels away that image to reveal UK biometric policy as located within a patchwork in which embedded commissioners, regulators and advisors challenge biometric imaginaries through interpretive flexibility and standpoint. By identifying technical, operational, legislative and ethical issues, these actors challenge the UK government imaginary and act as channels of critique between it and wider stakeholder communities. The article further challenges assumptions concerning the cohesion of national imaginaries by highlighting a diverging approach to biometric governance in Scotland. The article uses these observations to sketch a means to further characterise the notion of the biometric imaginary and to address biometric policymaking more widely.
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Butler JM, Willis S. Interpol review of forensic biology and forensic DNA typing 2016-2019. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2020; 2:352-367. [PMID: 33385135 PMCID: PMC7770417 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2019.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This review paper covers the forensic-relevant literature in biological sciences from 2016 to 2019 as a part of the 19th Interpol International Forensic Science Managers Symposium. The review papers are also available at the Interpol website at: https://www.interpol.int/content/download/14458/file/Interpol%20Review%20Papers%202019.pdf.
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Almohammed E, Zgonjanin D, Alsaadi S, Hadi S. A study of old Serbian skeletal remains using ForenSeq DNA Signature™ kit. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL GENETICS SUPPLEMENT SERIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigss.2019.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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11
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Nogel M, Pádár Z, Czebe A, Kovács G. Developing legal regulation of forensic DNA-phenotyping in Hungary. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL GENETICS SUPPLEMENT SERIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigss.2019.10.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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12
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Queirós F. The visibilities and invisibilities of race entangled with forensic DNA phenotyping technology. J Forensic Leg Med 2019; 68:101858. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2019.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Samuel G, Prainsack B. Civil society stakeholder views on forensic DNA phenotyping: Balancing risks and benefits. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 43:102157. [PMID: 31518963 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.102157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Forensic DNA phenotyping (FDP) is an umbrella term for practices seeking to infer likely phenotypic characteristics based on crime scene DNA. Specifically, it is intended to help criminal investigators find an unknown suspected perpetrator by providing information about what the suspected perpetrator may look like based on the analysis of DNA left at the crime scene. While many purport the usefulness of FDP in this regard, its probabilistic nature, as well as its ability to disclose information about an individual that may be considered private raises a range of ethical and social concerns. This paper reports findings from interviews with thirty civil society stakeholders across nine European countries. Our findings reflect the wide variation of views in Europe regarding if, when and/or how the technology should be used in the criminal justice system, and we illustrate this by presenting the different ways in which our participants strike a balance between the potential usefulness of the technology, and the various ethical and social considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Samuel
- Department of Global Health & Social Medicine, King's College London, UK.
| | - Barbara Prainsack
- Department of Global Health & Social Medicine, King's College London, UK; Department of Political Science, University of Vienna, Austria
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Machado H, Silva S. What influences public views on forensic DNA testing in the criminal field? A scoping review of quantitative evidence. Hum Genomics 2019; 13:23. [PMID: 31122278 PMCID: PMC6533668 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-019-0207-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Forensic DNA testing is a powerful tool used to identify, convict, and exonerate individuals charged of criminal offenses, but there are different views on its benefits and risks. Knowledge about public views on forensic DNA testing applied in the criminal field is socially valuable to practitioners and policymakers. This paper aims to synthesize quantitative evidence about the factors that influence public views on forensic DNA testing in the criminal field. Based on a systematic search conducted in January 2019, a scoping review was performed, targeting studies presenting original empirical data that were indexed in Web of Science and PubMed. The two authors performed eligibility and data extraction. RESULTS The 11 studies were conducted mainly in European countries (Italy, Portugal, Serbia, Spain, Switzerland) and the remaining derived from the USA and New Zealand. Non-representative samples were mostly used to explore the benefits and risks of criminal DNA databases, criteria for insertion and retention of DNA samples and profiles, knowledge, willingness to donate a DNA sample, and custody. The value of forensic DNA databases in protecting society from crime was emphasized. Concerns about improper access to forensic genetic data and risks to civil liberties associated with its uses were expressed. The scarce literature on Forensic DNA Phenotyping and familial searching revealed the same trend of positively valuing forensic DNA testing. Only factors related with socioeconomic position were assessed by more than two studies. Results suggested that public views on forensic DNA testing are influenced by the level of education, age, and exposure to law enforcement occupations although not in a straightforward manner. CONCLUSION Further empirical research should assess standardized factors related with social and structural levels (e.g., scientific literacy, public trust in the justice system and concerns about victimization or police activity) and be performed in different national jurisdictions to enable generalization and comparison of findings. It is needed to expand empirical studies on public views about the commercialization of forensic science and the use of recent controversial techniques and new transparency and accountability models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Machado
- Institute for Social Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Susana Silva
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Katsara MA, Nothnagel M. True colors: A literature review on the spatial distribution of eye and hair pigmentation. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 39:109-118. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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17
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Socio-technical disagreements as ethical fora: Parabon NanoLab’s forensic DNA Snapshot™ service at the intersection of discourses around robust science, technology validation, and commerce. BIOSOCIETIES 2018. [DOI: 10.1057/s41292-018-0138-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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18
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Richmond S, Howe LJ, Lewis S, Stergiakouli E, Zhurov A. Facial Genetics: A Brief Overview. Front Genet 2018; 9:462. [PMID: 30386375 PMCID: PMC6198798 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Historically, craniofacial genetic research has understandably focused on identifying the causes of craniofacial anomalies and it has only been within the last 10 years, that there has been a drive to detail the biological basis of normal-range facial variation. This initiative has been facilitated by the availability of low-cost hi-resolution three-dimensional systems which have the ability to capture the facial details of thousands of individuals quickly and accurately. Simultaneous advances in genotyping technology have enabled the exploration of genetic influences on facial phenotypes, both in the present day and across human history. There are several important reasons for exploring the genetics of normal-range variation in facial morphology. - Disentangling the environmental factors and relative parental biological contributions to heritable traits can help to answer the age-old question "why we look the way that we do?" - Understanding the etiology of craniofacial anomalies; e.g., unaffected family members of individuals with non-syndromic cleft lip/palate (nsCL/P) have been shown to differ in terms of normal-range facial variation to the general population suggesting an etiological link between facial morphology and nsCL/P. - Many factors such as ancestry, sex, eye/hair color as well as distinctive facial features (such as, shape of the chin, cheeks, eyes, forehead, lips, and nose) can be identified or estimated using an individual's genetic data, with potential applications in healthcare and forensics. - Improved understanding of historical selection and adaptation relating to facial phenotypes, for example, skin pigmentation and geographical latitude. - Highlighting what is known about shared facial traits, medical conditions and genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Richmond
- Applied Clinical Research and Public Health, School of Dentistry, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Laurence J. Howe
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Lewis
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- School of Oral and Dental Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Evie Stergiakouli
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- School of Oral and Dental Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Alexei Zhurov
- Applied Clinical Research and Public Health, School of Dentistry, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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Bradbury C, Köttgen A, Staubach F. Off-target phenotypes in forensic DNA phenotyping and biogeographic ancestry inference: A resource. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2018; 38:93-104. [PMID: 30391626 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2018.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
With recent advances in DNA sequencing technologies it has become feasible and cost effective to genotype larger marker sets for forensic purposes. Two technologies that make use of the larger marker sets have come into focus in forensic research and applications; inference of biogeographic ancestry (BGA) and forensic DNA phenotyping (FDP). These methods hold the promise to reveal information about a yet unknown perpetrator from a DNA sample. In contrast, DNA-profiling, that is a standard practice in case work, relies on matching DNA-profiles between crime scene material and suspects on a database of DNA-profiles. Markers for DNA-profiling were developed under the premise to reveal as little additional information about the human source of the profile as possible, the rationale being that personal privacy rights have to be balanced against the public interest in solving a crime. The same argument holds for markers used in BGA and FDP; these markers might also reveal information on off-target phenotypes (OTPs), that go beyond BGA and the phenotypes targeted in FDP. In particular, health related OTPs might shift the balance between privacy protection and public interest. However, to our knowledge, there is currently no convenient resource available to incorporate knowledge on OTPs in BGA and FDP assay design and application. In order to provide such a resource, we performed a systematic search for OTPs associated with a comprehensive set of markers (1766 SNPs) used or suggested to be used for BGA inference and FDP. In this set, we identified a relatively small number of 27 SNPs (1.53%) that convey information on diverse health related OTPs such as cancer risk, induced asthma, or risk of alcoholism. Some of these SNPs are commonly used for FDP and BGA across different marker sets. We conclude that the effects of SNP markers used in FDP and BGA on OTPs are currently limited, with few exceptions that should be considered in a balanced decision on assay design and application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cedric Bradbury
- University College Freiburg, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anna Köttgen
- Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Dept. of Biometry, Epidemiology and Medical Bioinformatics, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Staubach
- Institute of Biology I, Dept. of Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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Abstract
Molecular identification technologies are often framed in terms of their societal benefits. Forensic uses of DNA databases benefit society through the efficient identification of criminal suspects, while consumer DNA services empower individuals by identifying ethnic, health-related, and potentially sexual, molecular genealogies. Two examples of these technologies are California's criminological database CAL-DNA and the revitalized project to find a 'gay gene'. Both examples show how molecular identification technologies are also entangled with histories of coercion and stigmatization. The search for a 'gay gene' is premised on the historical stigmatization of homosexuality as deviant as well as contemporary concerns with resisting the idea that it is a lifestyle choice. The CAL-DNA database demonstrates that stigmatization still underpins contemporary identification technologies. This 'race-neutral' database puts racial minorities at increased risk of getting caught up in the criminal system precisely because of a racist history of identifying men of color as potential criminals. While the increasing criminological and consumer applications of molecular identification technologies are spearheaded in California, their uses emerge in a futurist culture that decontextualizes them from historic and contemporary coercion. The molecular identities these technologies create tell a tale of two Californias; one of empowerment and another of surveillance and stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Jabloner
- Center for Research on Ethical, Legal and Social Implications of Psychiatric, Neurologic and Behavioral Genetics, Columbia University, New York, USA,
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21
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Krikorian G, Vailly J. How Could the Ethical Management of Health Data in the Medical Field Inform Police Use of DNA? Front Public Health 2018; 6:154. [PMID: 29896469 PMCID: PMC5987175 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gaelle Krikorian
- UMR8156 Institut de recherche interdisciplinaire sur les enjeux sociaux, Paris, France
| | - Joëlle Vailly
- UMR8156 Institut de recherche interdisciplinaire sur les enjeux sociaux, Paris, France
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22
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Abstract
Human genetic variation is a major resource in forensics, but does not allow all forensically relevant questions to be answered. Some questions may instead be addressable via epigenomics, as the epigenome acts as an interphase between the fixed genome and the dynamic environment. We envision future forensic applications of DNA methylation analysis that will broaden DNA-based forensic intelligence. Together with genetic prediction of appearance and biogeographic ancestry, epigenomic lifestyle prediction is expected to increase the ability of police to find unknown perpetrators of crime who are not identifiable using current forensic DNA profiling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athina Vidaki
- Department of Genetic Identification, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room Ee1051, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Manfred Kayser
- Department of Genetic Identification, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room Ee1051, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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