D0033 - FORENSIC GENETICS

Learning outcomes

The course aims to provide students with a solid understanding of the molecular techniques applied in forensic genetics investigations. Students will learn to analyze and interpret DNA profiles for human identification, kinship analysis, and biological trace evaluation in criminal cases. The course will also develop critical skills to assess forensic genetic evidence within ethical, legal, and scientific frameworks.

Course contents

Introduction to forensic genetics for personal identification and kinship testing.

Crime scene investigation, Blood Stain Pattern analysis, body fluid identification in forensic.

Methods in Forensic Genetics: DNA extraction, Quantitation by HID kits and Amplification in multiplex PCR, DNA profiling in human identification and kinship analysis, Sequencing of nuDNA and mtDNA, lineage markers in forensic genetics, interpretation of complex and Low Template DNA profiles, biostatistical evaluation in kinship/paternity testing and personal identification

Recent advances in forensic genetics (MPS and new markers),DNA phenotyping and SNP markers, Epigenetics and DNA methylation

Guidelines and recommendations in forensic analysis, National DNA databases for forensic porpouses

Pharmacogenetics in forensic sciences

Good practice in forensic genetics labs: ISO9001:2015 and general accreditation requirements (European Standard EN/ISO/IEC 17025) in a forensic lab

Readings/Bibliography

J. Butler Fundamentals of Forensic DNA Typing

Guidelines and Recommendations of Ge.F.I., ISFG and ENFSI

Original research articles and reviews on Pubmed

Teaching methods

Frontal lessons with slides

Examples of real caseworks

Teaching laboratories

Assessment methods

Student learning will be assessed by a multiple-choice questions text and one short answer question.

Possibility of oral exam and short presentation

Teaching tools

Slides and supplementary materials will be provided

Discussion of casework and biostatistical evaluation using the HID software

Office hours

See the website of Carla Bini