Molecular Photofitting: Predicting Ancestry and Phenotype Using DNA

In the field of forensics, there is a critical need for genetic tests that can function in a predictive or inferential sense, before suspects have been identified, and/or for crimes for which DNA evidence exists but eye-witnesses do not. Molecular Photofitting fills this need by describing the process of generating a physical description of an individual from the analysis of his or her DNA. The molecular photofitting process has been used to assist with the identification of remains and to guide criminal investigations toward certain individuals within the sphere of prior suspects.

Molecular Photofitting provides an accessible roadmap for both the forensic scientist hoping to make use of the new tests becoming available, and for the human genetic researcher working to discover the panels of markers that comprise these tests. By implementing population structure as a practical forensics and clinical genomics tool, Molecular Photofitting serves to redefine the way science and history look at ancestry and genetics, and shows how these tools can be used to maximize the efficacy of our criminal justice system.

Explains how physical descriptions of individuals can be generated using only their DNAContains case studies that show how this new forensic technology is used in practical applicationIncludes over 100 diagrams, tables, and photos to illustrate and outline complex concepts

Chapter 1. Forensic DNA Analysis: from Modest Beginnings to Molecular Photofitting, Genics, Genetics, Genomics and the Pertinent Population Genetics Principles
Chapter 2. Ancestry and Admixture
Chapter 3. Biogeographical Ancestry Admixture Estimation - Theoretical Considerations
Chapter 4. Biogeographical Ancestry Admixture Estimation - Practicality and Application
Chapter 5. Characterizing Admixture Panels
Chapter 6. Apportionment of Autosomal Diversity with Continental Markers
Chapter 7. Apportionment of Autosomal Diversity with Sub-Continental Markers
Chapter 8. Indirect Methods for Phenotype Inference
Chapter 9. Direct Method of Phenotype Inference
Chapter 10. The First Case Studies of Molecular Photofitting
Chapter 11. The Politics and Ethics of Admixture Analysis and Molecular Photofitting
Chapter 11. The Politics and Ethics of Admixture analysis and Molecular Photofitting