Population Genetics and Forensics

Recommended Prerequisites

Knowledge of biology, biochemistry in the pre graduate cycle of courses in the scope of Biomedical Sciences.

Teaching Methods

For the lectures it will be used powerpoint presentations, handouts/articles/or other material that teachers understand to be best suited.

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.

The test will be carried out in accordance with specific pedagogical objectives of the module and the number of questions will be representative of the importance of the issue to be evaluated.

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 the medicolegal context.

Legal aspects of kinship investigations.

Head Lecturer(s)

Francisco Manuel Andrade Corte-Real Gonçalves

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Other: 20.0%
The evaluation consists of a multiple choice exam and development: 80.0%

Bibliography

Butler, J.M. Advanced Topics in Forensic DNA Typing: Interpretation. Elsevier AcademicPress, San Diego, 2015

Algumas perspectivas da identificação genética. Genética Forense. Pinheiro MF. Ed. Univ. Fernando Pessoa, 2010. P 17-78.

Corte-Real F, Vieira DN. Princípios de Genética Forense. Coimbra: Imprensa da Universidade de Coimbra, 2015.

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.