Genetic Reconstruction
Genetic reconstruction is an in-depth analysis of DNA samples from possible biological relatives to determine whether they are related to a child. Usually, it is used in cases where the child’s parent is missing or deceased, and the child’s relationship with close relatives of the parent needs to be determined. If an alleged father, for instance, is missing, the child, mother (if available), paternal grandfather, and paternal uncle (the alleged father’s full brother) will be tested to see if the child is biologically related to the alleged father’s family.
When is genetic reconstruction used?
Genetic reconstruction is used when an alleged parent is missing or unavailable for testing and viability tests reveal that no DNA samples are useful for testing. The first option in such cases is grandparentage testing; however, when a grandparent is missing or deceased, genetic reconstruction can often be used instead.
Genetic reconstruction can be useful in many circumstances. It can be used for identifying and reuniting biological family members in adoption cases. It can also be used for immigration cases when a relationship between family members needs to be proven and one or both of the parents are missing. Genetic reconstruction also has uses in Social Security and inheritance claims.
Who is typically involved?
Any biological member of a family can participate in genetic reconstruction. The family members involved will depend on the type of relationship that needs to be determined.
To determine a child’s relationship to an alleged father’s close relatives, the mother and two close relatives (a biological parent or full sibling) of the father need to be tested. If the mother is unavailable for testing, an additional close relative of the father needs to be tested.
How are the samples collected?
Samples for genetic reconstruction can be collected in several different ways, but the most common collection method is by buccal swabs .
To learn more about buccal swabs and other forms of collection, visit the Sample Collection page.
How long can the results take?
Genetic reconstruction is an extensive DNA test. The results from reconstruction can take up to 14 business days to be released after the DNA testing company has received all the samples.
What is the typical price range for genetic reconstruction?
Each genetic reconstruction case is different, so prices for these tests vary with each situation. Typically, these tests run between $1,200 and $1,700. You should speak with your DNA testing company to learn about the cost for your individual reconstruction case.
How conclusive are the results?
The results for genetic reconstructions vary with each case. The DNA testing company should provide you with a Combined Relatedness Index (similar to Combined Paternity Index) that will represent the odds in favor of genetic relationships between the child and the alleged family members. By using this number, the lab can determine the probability of relatedness between the child and the alleged family members.
What else should you know about genetic reconstruction?
You have the option of choosing in-home or chain of custody genetic reconstruction. The choice should be made based on your intended use of the test results. If you are looking for peace of mind or out of curiosity, you can choose an in-home test. However, consider any future uses you may have for the results, in case you think that the results may be useful in legal or court cases. If you believe these results should be court admissible or usable in immigration or child support cases, you should choose a chain of custody test instead.
You can learn more by visiting the Do you need a chain of custody test? page.
| 
