DNA Profiling

Picture Perfect DNA

In the not-too-distant future, forensic investigators will be able to create a photo identikit of a suspect in the absence of eyewitnesses, using just the smallest trace of DNA left at a crime scene. Bond University’s Associate Professor of Biomedical Sciences, Dr Angela van Daal has made some key breakthroughs linking genetic markers to complex human characteristics such as height, pigmentation and facial features.

Drawing together her expertise in genetic molecular research and DNA profiling, Dr van Daal has been working on the genetics of human physical morphology for a number of years, initially at Queensland University of Technology’s CRC for Diagnostics and now at Bond University.

“We’ve already identified specific genes associated with hair colour and skin tone, as well as height,” said Dr van Daal.

“I believe further investigation will provide even more detail, such as how wide apart a person’s eyes are set, whether they have a large or small nose and even the general shape of their cheekbones.

“At the moment, forensic investigators need a suspect in hand to match any DNA evidence they have. This further development of genetic research will allow them to take that DNA sample and develop a reasonably detailed identikit of the suspected perpetrator.

“Whilst it won’t be as exact as a photo, they will be able to determine height, skin colour, hair colour and general facial features, even when there are no eye witnesses to help.”

With input from up to 700 volunteers, Dr van Daal believes the DNA identikit process could be in use in the forensic field in as little as five years. Dr van Daal has been internationally recognised for her cutting edge research in DNA profiling.

Working at South Australia’s Forensic Science Centre in the early 1990s, she introduced PCR DNA testing procedures into court. She was one of the first in the forensic world to use this technology that allowed DNA typing from the smallest trace of evidence.

In a landmark murder case, she presented pre-trial evidence that resulted in acceptance of the DNA typing process as a viable means of identification and was subsequently instrumental in introducing DNA as acceptable evidence in many Australian law courts. She also played a key role in establishing guidelines for forensic DNA testing as well as DNA parentage testing that has been enacted into Commonwealth legislation. She has also been involved in accreditation of a number of forensic laboratories including the FBI.

Key Project Team Members

• Dr Angela van Daal - Bond University