Until now, forensic DNA profiles in the United States have been a series of 26 numbers that can be used to identify an individual. When DNA evidence yields only a partial profile, some of the numbers will be missing. In the case illustrated int eh middle, 13 numbers, represented by puzzle pieces, are missing in the middle puzzle. There may not be sufficient information to establish an identity.

 

Starting January 1, 2017, forensic DNA profiles in the United States will be a series of 40 numbers. The case illustrated to the right also has 13 numbers missing, yet there is still sufficient information to establish an identity. These upgraded profiles are based in part on research by NIST scientists including Mike Coble, pictured above, and colleagues.