Forensic Biology and Genetics

Recommended Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of biology and human genetics.

Teaching Methods

Theoretical lectures using powerpoint, presenting the theoretical foundations and possible applications of scientific methodologies and technical procedures, including the presentation of materials of collection for better viewing of the proceedings in question.

Theoretical-practical lectures for presentation and discussion of practical cases based on theoretical assumptions.

Learning Outcomes

Dominate the principles and concepts underlying the genetic identification;

Know the procedures and methodologies for collecting biological samples for the purpose of their genetic identification;

Understand the basics necessary for statistical interpretation of results;

Know correctly interpret the expert conclusions in this area.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Introduction to Forensic Genetics. Types of DNA polymorphisms most frequently used. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and frequencies estimation. Population genetics.

Collection and shipment of samples. Stains of blood and semen stains. Analysis of pelage and hairs. Generic diagnosis of species and individual. Other spots of forensic interest.

Basic DNA profile data with forensic interest.

Biological research of kinship.

Individual genetic identification of unknown.

Biological Criminology.

Quality in Forensic Genetics.

Clinical and Molecular Genetics in themedicolegalcontext.

Legal aspects of kinship investigations.

Ethics in ForensicGenetics.

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Exam: 100.0%

Bibliography

Butler, J.M. Advanced Topics in Forensic DNA Typing: Interpretation. Elsevier AcademicPress, San Diego, 2015
Corte-Real F, Vieira DN. Princípios de genética forense.. Imprensa da Universidade de Coimbra. 2015
Jardim P., Santos A, Magalhães T. Colheita e gestão de amostras biológicas para estudos genéticos em caso de suspeita de crime sexual. Coord. Maria de Fátima Pinheiro. Edições Universidade Fernando Pessoa, 2010.
Pinheiro MF. Ed Algumas perspectivas da identificação genética. Genética Forense.. Univ. Fernando Pessoa, 2010. P 17-78.
Pinheiro MF, Cainé L. Estudo de DNA não-humano,Coord. Maria de FátimaPinheiro. EdiçõesUniversidade Fernando Pessoa, 2010.
Prinz  M., Carracedo A., Mayr WR., Morling N., Parsons TJ., Sajantila A., Scheithauer R., Schmitter H., Schneider PM., DNA Commission of the International Society for Forensic Genetics (ISFG): Recommendations regarding the role of forensic genetics for disaster victim identification (DVI)', Forensic Sci Int. Genet.1(1), 2007, 3-12.