Introduction to the Special Issue on Forensic Genetics: Non-Human DNA

Forensic Genetics is now recognized as an example to follow by the sister forensic disciplines [1]. The growth and success of Forensic Genetics has been amply demonstrated employing biological material of human origin. Extension to the forensic examination of non-human DNA lagged behind, but it is now intensively researched and has already provided spectacular and innovative results. This growth can be assessed, for instance, through the number of presentations devoted to non-human DNA in the last International Society for Forensic Genetics Congress (21 out of 317; proceedings soon to be published in Forensic Science International: Genetics Supplement Series) or by browsing the most recent issues of the leading journals in the field [e.g., 2-5]. Moreover, a comprehensive and authoritative handbook has been recently published [6].