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Wang M, Chen H, Luo L, Huang Y, Duan S, Yuan H, Tang R, Liu C, He G. Forensic investigative genetic genealogy: expanding pedigree tracing and genetic inquiry in the genomic era. J Genet Genomics 2024:S1673-8527(24)00158-9. [PMID: 38969261 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2024.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
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 SNP 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengge Wang
- Institute of Rare Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Center for Archaeological Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Anti-Drug Technology Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510000, China.
| | - Hongyu Chen
- Institute of Rare Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Center for Archaeological Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Department of Forensic Medicine, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Lintao Luo
- Institute of Rare Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Center for Archaeological Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Department of Forensic Medicine, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yuguo Huang
- Institute of Rare Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Center for Archaeological Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Shuhan Duan
- Institute of Rare Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Huijun Yuan
- Institute of Rare Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Center for Archaeological Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China.
| | - Renkuan Tang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Chao Liu
- Anti-Drug Technology Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510000, China.
| | - Guanglin He
- Institute of Rare Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Center for Archaeological Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Anti-Drug Technology Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510000, China.
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Zeye MMJ, Ouedraogo SY, Millogo M, Djigma FW, Zoure AA, Zeba M, Palenfo R, Dakio N, Zaongo SD, Wu X, Simpore J. Forensic DNA database and criminal investigation in the Sahel region: a need to update the national security policy? Forensic Sci Res 2024; 9:owad056. [PMID: 38939471 PMCID: PMC11208719 DOI: 10.1093/fsr/owad056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Ongoing terrorist attacks in the Sahel region call for strengthening the security system by using human DNA identification technology. In this context, public opinion must be considered when establishing solid standards and universal safeguards for one of the most invasive forms of surveillance and profiling. For this purpose, we gathered internet users' opinions in Burkina Faso (a country located in the Sahel region) on the use of DNA technology to support criminal investigations. The results revealed that 91.7% (431) of the 470 participants believed that this technology is currently necessary for the Burkina Faso's criminal justice system. However, the respondents expressed concerns about the custody and management of a national forensic DNA database. In this particular security setting, the public opinion of this study may provide leaders and political policymakers with clues for considering genetic fingerprints and implementing an national forensic DNA database to support criminal investigations in Burkina Faso whilst also considering the ethical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moutanou M J Zeye
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Genetics (LABIOGENE), University Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- Directorate General of the National Police of Burkina Faso, Directorate of Technical and Scientific Police, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Serge Y Ouedraogo
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Genetics (LABIOGENE), University Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Missa Millogo
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Genetics (LABIOGENE), University Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- Directorate General of the National Police of Burkina Faso, Directorate of Technical and Scientific Police, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Florencia W Djigma
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Genetics (LABIOGENE), University Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- Pietro Annigoni Biomolecular Research Centre (CERBA), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Abdou A Zoure
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Genetics (LABIOGENE), University Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- Department of Biomedical and Public Health, Research Institute of Health Sciences (IRSS/CNRST), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Moctar Zeba
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Genetics (LABIOGENE), University Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- Directorate General of the National Police of Burkina Faso, Directorate of Technical and Scientific Police, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Rachide Palenfo
- Directorate General of the National Police of Burkina Faso, Directorate of Technical and Scientific Police, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Noe Dakio
- Ministry of Justice of Burkina Faso, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Silvere D Zaongo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiang Wu
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jacques Simpore
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Genetics (LABIOGENE), University Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- Pietro Annigoni Biomolecular Research Centre (CERBA), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
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Srivastava A, Harshey A, Das T, Kumar A, Yadav MM, Shrivastava P. Impact of DNA evidence in criminal justice system: Indian legislative perspectives. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s41935-022-00309-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The scientific and technological advances along with the changing socio-economical standards of society have posed new challenges to the criminal justice system. With the changes in society and technology, there is also an increase in crime rate. Forensics provides the scientific proofs beyond the shadow of reasonable doubt and thus significantly contributes in criminal as well as civil investigations and legal matters.
Main body of the abstract
Discovery of DNA has opened new avenues and the advancement of DNA technology and its introduction into the court of law has provided extensive aid in the resolution of civil and criminal disputes. In India, the DNA technology was first introduced in a paternity dispute in 1989. However, the need for legislation and guidelines to support grounds for the use of DNA profiling for forensic purposes in India has been recognized for some time now. In July 2019, the DNA Technology (Use and Application) Bill 2019 was introduced in the Indian parliament.
Short conclusion
Herein, this article is focused on the current aspects of DNA based evidence in the Indian Criminal Justice system along with the associated issues, highlighting the need for specific DNA based legislation.
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Keerti A, Ninave S. DNA Fingerprinting: Use of Autosomal Short Tandem Repeats in Forensic DNA Typing. Cureus 2022; 14:e30210. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Anjum MS, Ahmad S, Siddique N, Ahmad QL, Amjad M, Tahir MA. PFSA DNA database: A tool to hunt the serial offenders. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 329:111061. [PMID: 34736049 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.111061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A forensic DNA database comprises of thousands of DNA profiles generated from suspects, convicts or even from common people from society. It is used for the cross-matching of DNA profiles obtained from evidence items collected from a crime scene. These databases are playing a core role in clearing the innocent and solving the dead-end unresolved crimes ultimately leading to crime reduction. In March, 2017, a nine years old minor girl was raped in district Khushab (Province Punjab). The medico-legal examiner indicated brutal sexual violence on the victim. Police apprehended a suspect who was excluded as the source of foreign male DNA from tested evidence items. Thus the case put up a question mark on the capabilities and efficiency of the police. An unknown male DNA profile obtained from evidence items was uploaded to PFSA DNA Database to maintain record. Later on, a suspect was arrested by Karachi (Province Sindh) police in another rape case, DNA profile of suspect was searched in the PFSA DNA Database. This generated DNA profile matched with the foreign DNA profile obtained from evidence items of minor victim, hence this atrocious crime was resolved. PFSA DNA Database provides support to criminal prosecution and also leads to identify potential suspects. It took years of effort to develop the rich PFSA DNA Database which subsequently proved to be fruitful in the exoneration of innocents and conviction of offenders in criminal cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Sohail Anjum
- DNA and Serology Department, Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA), Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sajjad Ahmad
- DNA and Serology Department, Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA), Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Nasir Siddique
- DNA and Serology Department, Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA), Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Qazi Laeeque Ahmad
- DNA and Serology Department, Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA), Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Amjad
- DNA and Serology Department, Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA), Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mohammad Ashraf Tahir
- DNA and Serology Department, Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA), Lahore, Pakistan
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de Groot NF, van Beers BC, Meynen G. Commercial DNA tests and police investigations: a broad bioethical perspective. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2021; 47:medethics-2021-107568. [PMID: 34509983 PMCID: PMC8639940 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2021-107568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Over 30 million people worldwide have taken a commercial at-home DNA test, because they were interested in their genetic ancestry, disease predisposition or inherited traits. Yet, these consumer DNA data are also increasingly used for a very different purpose: to identify suspects in criminal investigations. By matching a suspect's DNA with DNA from a suspect's distant relatives who have taken a commercial at-home DNA test, law enforcement can zero in on a perpetrator. Such forensic use of consumer DNA data has been performed in over 200 criminal investigations. However, this practice of so-called investigative genetic genealogy (IGG) raises ethical concerns. In this paper, we aim to broaden the bioethical analysis on IGG by showing the limitations of an individual-based model. We discuss two concerns central in the debate: privacy and informed consent. However, we argue that IGG raises pressing ethical concerns that extend beyond these individual-focused issues. The very nature of the genetic information entails that relatives may also be affected by the individual customer's choices. In this respect, we explore to what extent the ethical approach in the biomedical genetic context on consent and consequences for relatives can be helpful for the debate on IGG. We argue that an individual-based model has significant limitations in an IGG context. The ethical debate is further complicated by the international, transgenerational and commercial nature of IGG. We conclude that IGG should not only be approached as an individual but also-and perhaps primarily-as a collective issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina F de Groot
- Philosophy, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Britta C van Beers
- Legal Theory and Legal History, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerben Meynen
- Philosophy, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Willem Pompe Institute for Criminal Law and Criminology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Del Real Á, Sáenz-Aldea M, Santurtún A, Zarrabeitia MT. Forensic databases, a perspective from the penitentiary centers of Spain. Sci Justice 2021; 61:175-179. [PMID: 33736850 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2020.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Scientific and technological progress in the field of forensic genetics is very useful in the resolution of criminal cases, but it entails the need for a deep ethical reflection, as the individual Fundamental Rights may be violated. This project aims to collect and compare the opinion of prisoners and prison officials on what characteristics the country's forensic database should have. In this context, 210 subjects were surveyed, 101 of them prisoners and the rest prison officials, from three different Spanish penitentiary centers. Among the results obtained, most prisoners and officials consider the national DNA database to be useful, and additionally, a 40% of the participants would support the integration of the profiles of the entire population. 64% considered it ethical to use the DNA profiles of the database as a tool for familial searching. Despite this, half of the respondents are concerned about the future uses of the DNA database. Integrating the opinion of these analyzed groups with other relevant judicial, scientific and ethical convictions, ensures the regulation between security and individual's Human Rights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Del Real
- Unit of Legal Medicine, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain.
| | - María Sáenz-Aldea
- Unit of Legal Medicine, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain; Family and Community Medicine, Family and Community Medicine, Davila Health Center, Santander, Spain
| | - Ana Santurtún
- Unit of Legal Medicine, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - María T Zarrabeitia
- Unit of Legal Medicine, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
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Nwawuba Stanley U, Mohammed Khadija A, Bukola AT, Omusi Precious I, Ayevbuomwan Davidson E. Forensic DNA Profiling: Autosomal Short Tandem Repeat as a Prominent Marker in Crime Investigation. Malays J Med Sci 2020; 27:22-35. [PMID: 32863743 PMCID: PMC7444828 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2020.27.4.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Short tandem repeat (STR) typing continues to be the primary workhorse in forensic DNA profiling. Therefore, the present review discusses the prominent role of STR marker in criminal justice system. All over the world, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) profiling provides evidence that may be used to convict criminals, as an irrefutable proof of wrongful convictions, invaluable links to the actual perpetrators of crimes, and could also deter some offenders from committing more serious offences. Clearly, DNA profiling tools have also aided forensic scientists to re-evaluate old cases that were considered closed as a result of inadequate evidence. In carrying out this review, a comprehensive electronic literature search using PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and Google Search were used, and all works meeting the subject matter were considered, including reviews, retrospective studies, observational studies and original articles. Case reports presented here, further demonstrates the crucial role of forensic DNA profiling in mitigating and providing compelling evidence for the resolution of crimes. For case report 1, there was a 100% match between the DNA recovered from the items found in the crime scene, and the suspect's DNA sample collected via buccal swab following 15 STR loci examination. Case report 2 further highlights the indispensable contribution of DNA database in solving crime. Therefore, it has become very necessary for developing countries like Nigeria to develop a national DNA database and make policies and legislatures that will further expand and enable the practice of forensic genetics, particularly DNA profiling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abdullahi Mohammed Khadija
- Molecular Drug Metabolism and Toxicology, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | | | - Imose Omusi Precious
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
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Kaplan J, Ling S, Cuellar M. Public beliefs about the accuracy and importance of forensic evidence in the United States. Sci Justice 2020; 60:263-272. [PMID: 32381243 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2020.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in forensic science, especially the use of DNA technology, have revealed that faulty forensic analyses may have contributed to miscarriages of justice. In this study we build on recent research on the general public's perceptions of the accuracy of 10 forensic science techniques and of each stage in the investigation process. We find that individuals in the United States hold a pessimistic view of the forensic science investigation process, believing that an error can occur about half of the time at each stage of the process. We find that respondents believe that forensics are far from perfect, with accuracy rates ranging from a low of 55% for voice analysis to a high of 83% for DNA analysis, with most techniques being considered between 65% and 75% accurate. Nevertheless, respondents still believe that forensic evidence is a key part of a criminal case, with nearly 30% of respondents believing that the absence of forensic evidence is sufficient for a prosecutor to drop the case and nearly 40% believing that the presence of forensic evidence - even if other forms of evidence suggest that the defendant is not guilty - is enough to convict the defendant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Kaplan
- Department of Criminology, University of Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Shichun Ling
- Department of Criminology, University of Pennsylvania, United States.
| | - Maria Cuellar
- Department of Criminology, University of Pennsylvania, United States
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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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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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