Interpreting DNA evidence : statistical genetics for forensic scientists

Interpretation of DNA profile matches depends on the use of statistical weights. This text provides the background information in statistics and genetics for the reader to arrive at these weights. Provides the theoretical underpinnings for interpreting matching DNA profiles and the means to express evidentiary strength in courts of law. A sampling of probability theory, transfer evidence, basic statistics, population and statistical genetics, parentage testing, mixtures, calculating match probabilities, and presenting evidence in court with particular reference to recent cases in the UK. Since the focus is on the current generation of polymerase chain reaction nuclear DNAbased profiling systems, there is no discussion of match/binning or of mitochondrial DNA statistics. The anticipated audience is forensic science and legal professionals who have some understanding of the current uses of DNA profiling. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or. Text discussing basic probability theory, the Bayesian approach to inference, concepts of population genetics, disputed parentage, interpretation of cases of profiles of mixtures, and the presentation of evidence in court, especially the Appeals Court in the UK.

Incl. laws of probability; transfer evidence; population & statistical genetics; parentage testing; presenting evidence