A validation study of DNA methylation-based age prediction using semen in forensic casework samples.

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Epigenetics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• An established age-prediction method utilizes DNA methylation patterns in semen.
• Validation is crucial for forensic application of new methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a previously described DNA methylation-based age-prediction method for semen for routine forensic use.
• To assess the concordance and sensitivity of the method.

Main Methods:

• Concordance testing comparing predicted age with chronological age.
• Sensitivity testing to determine the minimum DNA quantity required for reliable prediction.
• Application of the method to forensic casework samples.

Main Results:

• High correlation observed between predicted and chronological age, with a mean absolute deviation of 4.8 years.
• Reliable age prediction accuracy and consistency achieved with >5 ng of bisulfite-converted DNA.
• Successful application demonstrated in real forensic casework samples.

Conclusions:

• The DNA methylation-based age-prediction method for semen is validated for routine forensic use.
• The method provides accurate and reliable age estimations from semen samples.
• This technique represents a valuable new tool for forensic investigations.