Interpreting DNA Mixtures

The interpretation of mixed DNA stains is explained in the context of likelihood ratios. The probabilities for the mixed-stain profile are evaluated under alternative explanations that specify the numbers of contributors and the profiles of any known contributors. Interpretations based simply on the...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of forensic sciences 1997-03, Vol.42 (2), p.213-222
Main Authors: Weir, BS, Triggs, CM, Starling, L, Stowell, LI, Walsh, KAJ, Buckleton, J
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Alleles
Coloring Agents - analysis
Data Interpretation, Statistical
Deoxyribonucleic acid
DNA
DNA - analysis
Forensic Medicine - methods
Forensic sciences
Genetics
Humans
Likelihood Functions
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Summary:The interpretation of mixed DNA stains is explained in the context of likelihood ratios. The probabilities for the mixed-stain profile are evaluated under alternative explanations that specify the numbers of contributors and the profiles of any known contributors. Interpretations based simply on the frequencies with which random members of a population would not be excluded from a mixed-stain profile do not make use of all the information, and may overstate the strength of the evidence against included people. The effects of the numbers of contributors depends on whether all the alleles at a locus are present in the mixed stain. A general equation is given to allow likelihood ratios to be calculated, and includes the "2p" modification suggested by the 1996 NRC report. This modification is not always conservative. A computer program to perform calculations is available.
ISSN:0022-1198
1556-4029
DOI:10.1520/JFS14100J