Analysis of the genealogy process in forensic genetic genealogy

Forensic investigative genetic genealogy: expanding pedigree tracing and genetic inquiry in the genomic era

Genetic genealogy provides crucial insights into the complex biological relationships within contemporary and ancient human populations by analyzing shared alleles and chromosomal segments that are identical by descent to understand kinship, migration patterns, and population dynamics. Within forensic science, forensic investigative genetic genealogy (FIGG) has gained prominence by leveraging next-generation sequencing technologies and population-specific genomic resources, opening new investigative avenues. In this review, we synthesize current knowledge, underscore recent advancements, and discuss the growing role of FIGG in forensic genomics. FIGG has been pivotal in revitalizing dormant inquiries and offering new genetic leads in numerous cold cases. Its effectiveness relies on the extensive single-nucleotide polymorphism profiles contributed by individuals from diverse populations to specialized genomic databases. Advances in computational genomics and the growth of human genomic databases have spurred a profound shift in the application of genetic genealogy across forensics, anthropology, and ancient DNA studies. As the field progresses, FIGG is evolving from a nascent practice into a more sophisticated and specialized discipline, shaping the future of forensic investigations.

Bibliometric analysis of kinship analysis from 1960 to 2023: global trends and development

Kinship analysis is a crucial aspect of forensic genetics. This study analyzed 1,222 publications on kinship analysis from 1960 to 2023 using bibliometric analysis techniques, investigating the annual publication and citation patterns, most productive countries, organizations, authors and journals, most cited documents and co-occurrence of keywords. The initial publication in this field occurred in 1960. Since 2007, there has been a significant increase in publications, with over 30 published annually except for 2010. China had the most publications (n = 213, 17.43%), followed by the United States (n = 175, 14.32%) and Germany (n = 89, 7.28%). The United States also had the highest citation count. Sichuan University in China has the largest number of published articles. The University of Leipzig and the University of Cologne in Germany exhibit the highest total citation count and average citation, respectively. Budowle B was the most prolific author and Kayser M was the most cited author. In terms of publications, Forensic Science International- Genetics, Forensic Science International, and International Journal of Legal Medicine were the most prolific journals. Among them, Forensic Science International-Genetics boasted the highest h-index, citation count, and average citation rate. The most frequently cited publication was "Van Oven M, 2009, Hum Mutat", with a total of 1,361 citations. The most frequent co-occurrence keyword included "DNA", "Loci", "Paternity testing", "Population", "Markers", and "Identification", with recent interest focusing on "Kinship analysis", "SNP" and "Inference". The current research is centered around microhaplotypes, forensic genetic genealogy, and massively parallel sequencing. The field advanced with new DNA analysis methods, tools, and genetic markers. Collaborative research among nations, organizations, and authors benefits idea exchange, problem-solving efficiency, and high-quality results.

Law enforcement use of genetic genealogy databases in criminal investigations: Nomenclature, definition and scope

Although law enforcement use of commercial genetic genealogy databases has gained prominence since the arrest of the Golden State Killer in 2018, and it has been used in hundreds of cases in the United States and more recently in Europe and Australia, it does not have a standard nomenclature and scope. We analyzed the more common terms currently being used and propose a common nomenclature: investigative forensic genetic genealogy (iFGG). We define iFGG as the use by law enforcement of genetic genealogy combined with traditional genealogy to generate suspect investigational leads from forensic samples in criminal investigations. We describe iFGG as a proper subset of forensic genetic genealogy, that is, FGG as applied by law enforcement to criminal investigations; hence, investigative FGG or iFGG. We delineate its steps, compare and contrast it with other investigative techniques involving genetic evidence, and contextualize its use within criminal investigations. This characterization is a critical input to future studies regarding the legal status of iFGG and its implications on the right to genetic privacy.

The overview of forensic genetic genealogy

Forensic genetic genealogy (FGG) benefits largely from popularity of genealogical research within (mostly) American society and the advent of new sequencing techniques that allow typing of challenging forensic samples. It is considered a true breakthrough for both active and especially cold cases where all other resources and methods have failed during investigation. Despite media coverage generally highlighting its powers, the method itself is considered very laborious and the investigation may easily got suspended at every stage due to many factors including no hits in the database or breaks in traceable lineages within the family tree. This review summarizes the scope of FGG use, mentions most concerns and misconceptions associated with the technique and points to the plausible solutions already suggested. It also brings together current guidelines and regulations intended to be followed by law enforcement authorities wishing to utilize genetic genealogy research.