Advances in DNA technology have provided people with many opportunities to use DNA tests. These tests have answered lingering questions about family relationships, settled legal disputes, and revealed medical mysteries, among other functions to make them incredibly useful tools in our society.
Some of the most common DNA tests include:
Paternity Test
- To verify the biological relationship between an alleged father and a child using DNA samples.
Maternity Test
- To verify the biological relationship between an alleged mother and a child using DNA samples.
Viability Test
- To analyze an unusual biological sample to determine if it has enough viable DNA to use in a DNA test. This test is used frequently when an alleged father or tested party is missing, unavailable, or deceased.
Grandparentage Test
- To verify the biological relationship between grandparents and their grandchild using DNA samples. This test is often used to indirectly determine the paternity of a child when the alleged father is missing.
Siblingship Test
- To determine if two individuals are biological siblings using DNA samples.
Genetic Reconstruction
- To determine if alleged family members are biologically related. Most often, this is used in a case where a child's alleged parent is missing or deceased and immediate family members of the alleged parent are available for testing.
DNA Banking
- To collect and store DNA samples for future use, particularly in paternity testing, missing children cases, and as reference for potentially genetic diseases.
Genetic Profiling
- To determine the distinguishing characteristics of one's DNA, most often called a DNA fingerprint.
Y-STR Test
- To verify biological relationships between males, based on the Y chromosome.
mtDNA Test
- To determine if people are biologically related through the maternal genetic line.
Each of these tests is useful for different circumstances. It is important that you consider your needs and speak with a DNA testing company to determine the best test for you.
