Autosomal STR Profiling and Databanking in Malaysia: Current Status and Future Prospects

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Genetics
• Biotechnology

Background:

• DNA profiling, initially called DNA fingerprinting, revolutionized criminal investigations using variable DNA regions.
• Advancements include short tandem repeats (STRs), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and DNA databases.
• Previous work detailed Malaysia's DNA profiling and databanking progress in 2019.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an update on Malaysia's Forensic DNA Databank of Malaysia (FDDM) performance.
• To address technical challenges in DNA profile interpretation for diverse populations.
• To explore the potential of rapid DNA testing in Malaysia.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of DNA profiles stored in the FDDM.
• Tracking the number of "hits" or matches in criminal investigations.
• Reviewing technical issues and future technological applications.

Main Results:

• The FDDM expanded significantly, holding 116,534 DNA profiles by 2019, up from 70,570 in 2017.
• The number of "hits" increased over threefold, from 17 in 2017 to 69 in 2019.
• Forensic DNA analysis and databanking are demonstrably contributing to criminal investigations in Malaysia.

Conclusions:

• DNA profiling and databanking are progressing effectively in Malaysia.
• Further development requires STR population data for underrepresented groups and trials of rapid DNA technologies.
• Policy makers and law enforcement should consider these aspects to enhance DNA profiling efficiency and reliability.