Othram maps: a graph-powered platform for pedigree visualization and forensic intelligence

Area of Science:

• Forensic science
• Bioinformatics
• Genetic genealogy

Background:

• Forensic genetic genealogy (FGG) requires complex family tree analysis integrating genetic and genealogical data.
• Existing platforms lack scalability and forensic workflow optimization for large pedigrees.
• Othram Maps was developed to address these limitations in forensic investigations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce Othram Maps, a novel graph-powered platform for forensic genetic genealogy.
• To provide a scalable and interactive tool for building and visualizing complex family trees in forensic casework.
• To support forensic investigations, biomedical research, and genetic epidemiology.

Main Methods:

• Utilizes a flexible graph architecture for dynamic family tree visualization.
• Implements a custom load-on-demand engine for navigating large pedigrees.
• Offers scalable, real-time interactivity with global and detailed views for collaborative casework.

Main Results:

• Othram Maps enables dynamic visualization and exploration of family trees of any size.
• The platform supports smooth navigation of trees with thousands of individuals.
• It is actively used by practitioners for identifying human remains and solving violent crimes.

Conclusions:

• Othram Maps provides a scalable and interactive solution for forensic genetic genealogy.
• The graph-powered platform enhances the capabilities of forensic intelligence applications.
• Its web-based accessibility facilitates collaborative and on-the-go casework.