[Developing forensic reference database by 18 autosomal STR for DNA identification in Republic of Belarus]

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Population Genetics
• Genetics

Background:

• Development of a comprehensive forensic reference database is crucial for accurate identification and legal proceedings.
• Existing databases may not fully represent the genetic landscape of specific populations, necessitating localized data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a unified forensic reference database for the Republic of Belarus.
• To analyze the genetic diversity and population structure within Belarus using autosomal microsatellites.
• To compare Belarusian genetic data with neighboring populations for forensic applications.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a large dataset comprising population (N=1040), familial (N=2550), and criminal registration (N=8756) genotypes.
• Analyzed 18 autosomal microsatellite loci (16 tetranucleotide, 2 pentanucleotide STR).
• Applied Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium analysis and statistical comparisons between different population groups and historical regions.

Main Results:

• A unified forensic reference database for 18 STR loci was created, integrating data from 12,346 individuals.
• No significant genetic differentiation was found among historical ethnographic regions within Belarus.
• The Belarusian database showed genetic similarity to Russian and Ukrainian populations, but significant differences from Southern and Western Slavs.

Conclusions:

• The developed reference database is essential for supporting forensic expertise in the Republic of Belarus.
• The genetic homogeneity within Belarus and its relationship with Eastern Slavic populations underscore the need for a specific national database.
• Findings highlight the importance of population-specific genetic data in forensic science.