Genetic considerations for interpreting molecular microbial forensic evidence

Genetic analyses of microbial evidence will be employed to assist in attribution of perpetrators of bioterrorism and biocrimes. There are some similarities and differences between human forensic and microbial forensic DNA analysis practices to consider. These population genetic and statistical interpretation issues center on the different genetic make-up, different inheritance mechanisms, different regulation mechanisms, and lineage-based analyses. In some cases, a quantitative assessment of the results of analysis may be possible; in other cases, it may be more appropriate to provide only a qualitative statement.