We need to strengthen four pillars of FGG—ultra-sensitive DNA profiles, enhanced search capabilities, automated database tools, and public participation—to realize the full potential and truly democratize this technology.
While autosomal SNP markers are central to forensic genetic genealogy, mtDNA and Y-DNA markers offer valuable lineage-specific insights, at no additional cost, that enhance and accelerate forensic investigations.
Familial search (FS) and forensic genetic genealogy (FGG) both use kinship relationships to generate investigative leads but differ significantly in scope and application.
In forensics, imputation should be used sparingly (if at all) and applied only where data quality and density allow for reliable analysis. Nothing replaces the value of high-quality, directly observed DNA data.
Massively parallel sequencing (MPS) is revolutionizing forensic DNA analysis, but the transition from traditional methods like STRs requires specialized expertise, dedicated tools, and proper metrics to ensure success.
From early methods like blood group analysis to modern approaches using massively parallel sequencing, scientists have developed quantitative techniques to measure genetic relationships.