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Genetic Re-Identification

Meaning

Genetic Re-Identification is the complex computational and bioethical process of linking de-identified genetic sequence data, often sourced from large-scale research repositories or commercial databases, back to the unique individual from whom the sample originated. This process highlights the non-absolute nature of anonymity in high-dimensional genetic datasets. The increasing sophistication of computational cross-referencing techniques amplifies the risk of re-identification, posing a significant challenge to the privacy protections in genomic research and personalized medicine.