Empirical testing of estimated DNA frequencies

Forensic Sci Int Genet. 2007 Dec;1(3-4):267-72. doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2007.06.004. Epub 2007 Aug 2.

Abstract

Direct empirical testing of forensic DNA micro-probabilities has proved difficult. Substantial support for the population genetic models on which these micro-probabilities are based has come from powerful but indirect means. However for many people empirical testing rather than models remains the ideal. Following the example set by Weir and Evett we report here a large-scale empirical test of a population genetic model incorporating substructure and relatedness. Given that all models represent simplifications of reality the fit of observed and prediction is remarkable and gives substantial support to the reliability of current methods.

MeSH terms

  • Alleles
  • Australia
  • DNA / genetics*
  • DNA Fingerprinting / statistics & numerical data
  • Databases, Genetic
  • Forensic Genetics / statistics & numerical data*
  • Genetics, Population / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Models, Genetic*
  • Models, Statistical
  • Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander / genetics
  • New Zealand
  • White People / genetics

Substances

  • DNA