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. 2017 Dec 21;18(1):238.
doi: 10.1186/s13059-017-1373-1.

From forensic epigenetics to forensic epigenomics: broadening DNA investigative intelligence

Athina Vidaki  1 , Manfred Kayser  2
Affiliations

From forensic epigenetics to forensic epigenomics: broadening DNA investigative intelligence

Athina Vidaki et al. Genome Biol. .

Abstract

Human genetic variation is a major resource in forensics, but does not allow all forensically relevant questions to be answered. Some questions may instead be addressable via epigenomics, as the epigenome acts as an interphase between the fixed genome and the dynamic environment. We envision future forensic applications of DNA methylation analysis that will broaden DNA-based forensic intelligence. Together with genetic prediction of appearance and biogeographic ancestry, epigenomic lifestyle prediction is expected to increase the ability of police to find unknown perpetrators of crime who are not identifiable using current forensic DNA profiling.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Questions to which forensic epigenomics is envisioned to provide answers in the future
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Challenges and considerations in developing and implementing forensic epigenomics. CpG cytosine-phosphate-guanine, pg picogram
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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