EURSTRs

EURSTRs, or European Short Tandem Repeats, are a type of genetic marker used in forensic science and genetic genealogy. They are short, repetitive sequences of DNA that vary in length and number of repeats between individuals. The specific STRs used in forensic analysis are located in non-coding regions of the human genome, meaning they do not directly code for proteins. However, these regions are highly polymorphic, exhibiting significant variation among the human population.

The power of EURSTRs lies in their ability to create a unique genetic profile for each individual. By analyzing a set number of these markers, forensic scientists can generate a DNA profile that can be used to identify individuals from biological samples like blood, saliva, or hair. The probability of two unrelated individuals having the same DNA profile based on a standard set of EURSTRs is extremely low, making them a reliable tool for identification in criminal investigations.

In genetic genealogy, EURSTRs are also utilized. By comparing the STR profiles of individuals, it's possible to estimate their degree of relatedness and identify common ancestors. This information can be used to build family trees and trace ancestral lineages. The development and standardization of EURSTR analysis have significantly advanced both forensic science and our understanding of human genetic diversity.