Genetic data in forensic science: Use, misuse and abuse

The diffusion of databases storing genetic information and health records for many citizens is clearly beneficial both for health care and for research, but is raising problems related with the possibility of misuse and abuse of these data. In this paper, we discuss the potential and limitations of DNA-based methods of forensic interest, starting from genetic profiling. We then move on to three related areas, and show that research so far has helped us understand the genetic bases of the probability to develop diseases, but has not identified genes that might (a) predispose to aggressive behavior, (b) allow racial categorization, and (c) make the person who carries them unsuitable for certain jobs or for raising step children. However, science is often misunderstood as producing certainties, and so sensitive biological information must be protected to avoid potentially serious violations of individual rights.