DNA methylation analysis-New procedure for forensic age estimation

In the last decade, epigenetic age estimation based on DNA methylation using molecular genetic analysis procedures has been intensively investigated. It is now increasingly being applied in routine forensic casework, particularly for the age estimation of unknown donors of crime scene evidence. The aim of this review article is to provide an understanding of the scientific principles and practical application of epigenetic age estimation in the context of routine forensic casework. DNA methylation is introduced as a biomarker for chronological age and the principles of the mode of functioning of mathematical estimation models are explained. In addition, the most commonly used sequencing platforms for methylation analyses are explained and the respective strengths and weaknesses regarding their applicability to forensically relevant trace evidence material are discussed. A further focus of this review is the presentation of the results of epigenetic age estimation with suggestions for a comprehensible presentation of the precise description of prediction accuracies. Finally, the legal background is discussed to emphasize that the use of epigenetic age estimation does not reveal any genetically determined individual traits of a person but can be classified as a conventional method of medical diagnostic analyses