Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology has emerged as a powerful tool in forensic genetics, revolutionizing the context of individualization in forensic investigations. This chapter explores the various applications of NGS technology in forensic contexts, particularly focusing on how it improves accuracy, sensitivity, as well as the fast individualization processes. We investigate the application of NGS for examining several types of forensic samples, such as degraded DNA, low-copy number samples, and complex DNA mixtures, increasing the possible application for forensic investigations. Key topics covered include the use of NGS for mitochondrial DNA analysis, the use of SNP analysis for ancestry and phenotypic prediction, and the capacity to interpret complicated DNA mixtures for contributor identification. Furthermore, we review the validation studies that were undertaken to assess the effectiveness of NGS platforms and workflows in forensic applications, highlighting the significance of extensive validation and quality control measures. In addition, legal and ethical concerns surrounding the use of NGS in forensic individualization are discussed, such as privacy concerns, data protection, and the admissibility of NGS-generated testimony in the courts. Future directions and challenges facing the field, such as enhancing NGS procedures, expanding bioinformatics tools, and increasing the affordability and accessibility of NGS devices, are also highlighted. Overall, this chapter offers an in-depth overview of the use of NGS technology for individualization in forensic contexts, emphasizing its revolutionary impact on forensic genetics and the potential to advance the field of forensic science and justice implementation.

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Application of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Technology for Individualization in Forensic Context

  • Hedia Zitouni,
  • Safia A. Messaoudi

摘要

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology has emerged as a powerful tool in forensic genetics, revolutionizing the context of individualization in forensic investigations. This chapter explores the various applications of NGS technology in forensic contexts, particularly focusing on how it improves accuracy, sensitivity, as well as the fast individualization processes. We investigate the application of NGS for examining several types of forensic samples, such as degraded DNA, low-copy number samples, and complex DNA mixtures, increasing the possible application for forensic investigations. Key topics covered include the use of NGS for mitochondrial DNA analysis, the use of SNP analysis for ancestry and phenotypic prediction, and the capacity to interpret complicated DNA mixtures for contributor identification. Furthermore, we review the validation studies that were undertaken to assess the effectiveness of NGS platforms and workflows in forensic applications, highlighting the significance of extensive validation and quality control measures. In addition, legal and ethical concerns surrounding the use of NGS in forensic individualization are discussed, such as privacy concerns, data protection, and the admissibility of NGS-generated testimony in the courts. Future directions and challenges facing the field, such as enhancing NGS procedures, expanding bioinformatics tools, and increasing the affordability and accessibility of NGS devices, are also highlighted. Overall, this chapter offers an in-depth overview of the use of NGS technology for individualization in forensic contexts, emphasizing its revolutionary impact on forensic genetics and the potential to advance the field of forensic science and justice implementation.