POPULATION GENETICS OF DNA PROFILES

• NCJ Number: 147174
• Journal: Journal of the Forensic Science Society Volume: 33 Issue: 4 Dated: (October-December 1993) Pages: 218-225
• Author(s): B S Weir; W G Hill
• Date Published: 1993
• Length: 8 pages
• Grant Number(s): GM45344
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institutes of Health
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Conference Material
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom
• Note: Part of the Royal Society of Edinburgh DNA Symposium held April 3, 1993.

Annotation

Population genetic theory is reviewed.

Abstract

This article reviews relevant population genetic theory and discusses how it can and should be applied in forensic situations. Multi-locus and single locus probe DNA profiling are covered briefly. Problems presented by the forensic use of DNA are examined including the calculation of the frequency of a particular profile in the population. The 1993 Register rape and murder case in South Carolina is discussed. The authors conclude that courts have come to expect that numerical weights be attached to evidence of matching profiles. These weights can be calculated from long-established population genetic principles. 20 references, 5 tables