Catarina Xavier
Papers
1
Total Citations
99
H-Index
1
About
Dr. Catarina Xavier is a leading figure in forensic genetics, whose work has been instrumental in advancing the use of complete mitochondrial genome (mtGenome) sequencing for human identification. Her primary research focuses on the development of robust, high-quality population reference databases and the application of massively parallel sequencing (MPS) technologies to forensic casework. Her landmark 2014 study, "Full mtGenome reference data: Development and characterization of 588 forensic-quality haplotypes representing three U.S. populations," which has garnered 99 citations, provided the foundational data necessary to transition forensic mtDNA analysis from the traditional control region to the entire genome. This work directly addressed a critical gap, enabling more discriminating and informative analyses of degraded or low-quantity DNA samples, such as those found in missing persons cases and mass disasters. By generating and rigorously characterizing these haplotypes, Dr. Xavier has created an essential resource that empowers forensic laboratories worldwide to adopt full mtGenome sequencing, significantly increasing the power of discrimination in difficult identifications and setting a new standard for forensic genetic evidence.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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