Probabilistic interpretation of the Amelogenin locus. (May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bright, Jo-Anne; Buckleton, John; Taylor, Duncan
• Is Part Of: Forensic science international. Volume 52(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-05
• Subjects: Amelogenin -- Probabilistic genotyping -- Likelihood ratio -- DNA profile -- Deconvolution; Forensic genetics -- Periodicals; Génétique légale -- Périodiques; Forensic genetics; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2021.102462
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1872-4973

Abstract

Highlights: We describe a method to assign weights to genotypes at the Amelogenin locus. The method uses template values for a previously interpreted profile. The maximum LR is 2 for a fully resolved genotype. There is strong exclusionary power for non-concordant POIs. Abstract: We describe a method to assign weights to genotype combinations at the Amelogenin locus. It is a typical practise in forensic laboratories that once the weight exceeds a threshold (such as 99 %), then they can be considered to be resolved enough to interpret (for example to load onto a database). We found that unless an individual is a clear major (or minor) contributor, the genotype weights do not typically exceed 99 % for any genotype. LR s have not been traditionally assigned for the Amelogenin locus and are small compared to an LR assigned for a modern day STR multiplex where, for a more discriminatory locus, the per locus LR for a resolved contributor could be in the order of tens or hundreds. The method described uses per contributor template values for a previously interpreted profile. The discrimination power is restricted, with a maximum possible LR of 2 for a fully resolved genotype, due to the limited number of alleles and hence genotypes and assuming equal proportions of genders in the population. However, it has a good power to exclude when the component is well resolved and non-concordant with a POI.