Forensic genetics is the branch of genetics that, through DNA analysis and comparison, deals with the resolution of legal problems such as paternity tests. Recently, it has been proposed that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) could be used as a new genetic marker in the field eventually even replacing the methods/markers now employed. But in an article just published online in Forensic Science International, a team of scientists challenges the effectiveness of SNPs in kinship studies predicting an increase in inconclusive cases when these markers are used.In forensic genetics, DNA samples are analysed through the comparison of particular DNA sequences unique to each individual. In fact, although more than 99% of the genome is the same across the human population, variations in DNA sequence called polymorphisms can be used to both differentiate and correlate individuals.
Source: Bright Surf (http://www.brightsurf.com/news/headlines/8805/Single_nucleotide_polymorphisms_and_forensic_genetics_maybe_not_such_a_perfect_combination.html)
3 comments:
I thought this was an interesting and well written summary. I didn't know that the switch to SNPs had been proposed much less disputed. It is reassuring to know that these methods are constantly being tested to both ensure that no mistakes are being made and to make progress in the field. I think they could have added why this switch to SNPs made it easier to perform these tests, and perhaps why it was found inconclusive. Overall I thought this was a good summary and a good job.
I thought this was a ver well written article. I would have liked to learned a little bit more about what exacty SNPs are. I think its pretty amazing how such a small mistake or difference, can really make a huge difference in the end. Its a good thing that there are many forensic scientists who are constantly testinng these things.
I thought this article was very interesting. The fact that this system may not be the most efficient method is very surprising. The fact that one mistake can affect the results is scary. Accuracy is one of the single most important pieces to forensics and thus accurate decisions are hugely significant to Forensic Science. I originally thought SNPs were very efficient but after reading this their work with forensic genetics is just not good enough. If more detail about SNPs were put in this summary would be clear and concise.
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