National DNA databases—practice and practicability. A forum for discussion

Abstract The success of the established National DNA databases (NDNAD) in linking crimes and nominating possible suspects has prompted many countries to enact legislation for the introduction of their own databases. While the technology used in the production of the DNA profiles remains consistent (there is a core set of STR loci common to all laboratories), there is considerable variation in the regulations which cover the entry of personal profiles. Five invited speakers presented the current situation with NDNADs in Europe and North America. The presentations included: (1) the various categories of crime for which a profile can be entered onto a database; (2) the numbers of profiles held on the databases; (3) whether the DNA samples can be retained for future analysis; (4) the successes of the various databases; (5) the interaction between the operators of the databases and other elements of the criminal justice systems. There were also discussions of the possible future technological developments that may affect the databases and a cautionary note on the quality measures necessary to ensure accuracy of analysis and database management and the potential for the misuse of the data retained.