Our regional director, Dr Vanessa Lynch, has recently published a thought-provoking article examining the intersection of forensic DNA profiling and individual privacy. While DNA profiling primarily relies on analysing short tandem repeat markers (STRs) and Amelogenin for biological sex determination, the paper highlights how biological sex, which is genetically assigned at birth, may not align with an individual's gender identity or account for chromosomal anomalies. Dr Lynch explores the privacy implications of disclosing biological sex in forensic contexts, especially for individuals with genetic anomalies, undisclosed transgender transformations, or gender identities differing from their biological sex. The article advocates for recognising the distinction between biological sex and gender, revising DNA profiling definitions, and implementing policies to restrict unnecessary disclosure of biological sex data in public domains. This critical analysis helps drive the need for a more nuanced and privacy-conscious approach in forensic science.
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