Press releases

MINSK, 8 February (BelTA) - Belarusian scientists began to compile a unique database “DNA-Appearance-Bel”, Chief Scientific Secretary of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus Alexander Kilchevsky told the media, BelTA has learned.

“Under the Belarus-Russia Union State program “DNA Identification” we seek to develop the technology to determine the probable appearance of an unknown individual based on his DNA characteristics. Work has begun on the unique database “DNA-Appearance-Bel” that will integrate the data on phenotypic and genetic characteristics of the Belarusian population. We have already collected about 300 samples. We will identify specific variants of the genes that determine the variety of pigmentation of the eyes and hair. We will develop an algorithm determining the color of eyes and hair of an unknown individual based on the genetic analysis of biological material and test it in a crime lab,” Alexander Kilchevsky said.

Under the Belarus-Russia Union State program the Belarusian scientists plan to develop the technology to determine the likely age, ethno-geographic origin, psycho-emotional status of an unknown individual using his DNA. Such research is conducted for the needs of the forensic sciences. “Thanks to the new technologies in forensics ,crimes will be solved more quickly and the suspects will be traced faster,” the scientist said.

The DNA Identification also provides for the development of innovative technologies for medicine. Scientist are set to examine the genetic predisposition to various diseases (cardiovascular, autoimmune, endocrine, bone and muscle, cancer), to develop kits of reagents for identifying the genetic markers for disease development.