TLDR Accurate prediction of eye, hair, and skin color in Latin American populations requires region-specific models and ethical guidelines.
The document reviews the application and challenges of forensic DNA phenotyping (FDP) for predicting eye, hair, and skin color in Latin American populations, where genetic diversity from Indigenous, European, and African ancestries complicates accurate predictions. It stresses the need for region-specific predictive models and highlights ongoing research in countries like Mexico and Brazil. Ethical concerns, such as racial profiling and misuse of data, are addressed, emphasizing the importance of legal frameworks and ethical guidelines. The review calls for large-scale multiethnic studies and tailored predictive panels to improve accuracy and aid forensic investigations in the region.
4 citations
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March 2024 in “Forensic Sciences Research” Forensic DNA phenotyping faces challenges like inconsistent terms and limited genetic knowledge.
May 2023 in “GSC biological and pharmaceutical sciences” Forensic DNA phenotyping is becoming useful for predicting physical traits in criminal investigations but is limited by ethical concerns and incomplete genetic understanding.
89 citations
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April 2023 in “Forensic Science International Genetics” Forensic DNA Phenotyping can now better predict appearance, ancestry, and age from DNA, but more research is needed for precise police use.
196 citations
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March 2016 in “Nature Communications” Genetic factors influence hair traits like shape, color, and greying in Latin Americans.
36 citations
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September 2015 in “Forensic Science International: Genetics” Certain DNA variants can predict straight hair in Europeans but are not highly specific.
48 citations
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May 2015 in “PLOS ONE” DNA variants can predict male pattern baldness, with higher risk scores increasing baldness likelihood.
340 citations
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September 2014 in “PLOS Genetics” The study found that in Latin America, ancestry varies by location, influences physical traits, and affects how people perceive their own heritage.