Forensic scientists could use DNA retrieved from a crime scene to predict the surname of the suspect, according to a new British study.
It is not perfect, but could be an important investigative tool when combined with other intelligence.
The method exploits genetic likenesses between men who share the same surname, and may help prioritise inquiries.
Details of the research from the University of Leicester, UK, appear in the latest edition of Current Biology.
Implications - Stat-tracking and data parsing are two emerging business tactics that offer huge benefits to companies willing to take advantage of them. Whether the information is parsed to identify murder suspects, or for the purposes of targeted advertising, companies can benefit from employing these business methods.
DNA Could Predict Your Surname
DNA Could Predict Your Surname
Trend Themes
1. Surname DNA Prediction - The use of DNA to predict surnames could disrupt the field of forensics investigation.
2. Genetic Likeness - The exploitation of genetic likeness to prioritize inquiries could disrupt the field of criminal investigations.
3. Combined Intelligence - The combination of DNA prediction with other intelligence could disrupt the field of forensic science and investigation.
Industry Implications
1. Forensics Investigation - The integration of DNA prediction could disrupt the field of forensics and increase the accuracy and speed of investigations.
2. Targeted Advertising - The use of data parsing to identify genetic likeness among individuals could revolutionize the field of targeted advertising.
3. Genetic Testing - The use of genetic testing to predict surnames could disrupt the field of ancestry research and genealogy.