From STRs to SNP Panels: Modern Techniques in the Genetic Identification of Missing Persons
🧬 Introduction In forensic genetics, Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) have been the key of human identification for over two decades. Current forensic systems typically use 24 autosomal STR markers, forming the global standard for paternity testing, missing person identification (MPI) and disaster victim identification (DVI). However, the field is now gradually migrating toward high-density Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) technologies. This transition is motivated by the need for greater statistical resolution, improved ability to detect distant kinship, and compatibility with degraded DNA samples often recovered in humanitarian and forensic contexts. ...