Epigenetics, particularly DNA methylation, is emerging as a valuable tool in forensic science. Unlike standard DNA analysis, which identifies who someone is, epigenetics can reveal details about them, such as age, lifestyle habits, and environmental exposures. A 2023 study published in Scientific Reports introduced the PAYA model, which uses methylation at 267 sites to estimate the age of adolescents and young adults with impressive accuracy (within 0.7 years for 18-year-olds). Another study in Forensic Science International: Genetics demonstrated how methylation markers can identify whether someone is a smoker or has certain health conditions, adding depth to suspect or victim profiles. These applications can help narrow down unknown individuals in investigations. However, ethical concerns remain, especially regarding privacy and how lifestyle or health information might be interpreted or misused.
Sources: A new blood based epigenetic age predictor for adolescents and young adults | Scientific Reports
It is somewhat concerning how much information can be extrapolated about a person with just a small number of cells. This could have significant benefits when it comes to criminal justice and medicine, but significant downsides for privacy and freedom.
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