Informed consent for forensic genetic population studies: Status quo and a call for harmonization

Area of Science:

• Forensic genetics
• Bioethics
• Population genetics

Background:

• Informed consent is crucial for ethical genetic data analysis and publication in forensic studies.
• Existing literature discusses the need for informed consent but lacks details on current documentation.
• This study addresses the gap by examining actual informed consent forms used in practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the content and diversity of 50 recent informed consent forms used in forensic population studies.
• To identify common elements and variations across forms from different global jurisdictions.
• To contribute to the discussion on harmonizing informed consent procedures in genetic research.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 50 informed consent forms submitted to EMPOP and STRidER databases.
• Review of forms irrespective of the quality of associated genetic data.
• Comparative assessment of form content, commonalities, and differences.

Main Results:

• Significant diversity was observed in the content and structure of informed consent forms.
• Key common elements were identified, alongside notable variations in specific clauses.
• The extent to which forms included suggested components was evaluated.

Conclusions:

• The diversity in current informed consent forms necessitates a move towards greater harmonization.
• Standardizing consent forms will ensure ethical principles are consistently applied to genetic data.
• This harmonization is vital for the responsible use of genetic samples in forensic population studies.