How Is DNA Testing Done?

Get the Test

DNA Testing is usually done in one of two ways. The first way is through law enforcement. They take samples and send it to a lab. This is something that is usually done in connection to a crime.
The second way DNA testing is done is to order a DNA testing kit. This is usually done online. Family Tree DNA is a very reputable company whose tests are used for genealogical purposes. Another type of kit, used for determining paternity, is available in major retail pharmacies and Wal-Mart. The kit can be requested online or purchased in store. The kits range from $129 to $369 depending on the type.

Y-Chomosome Testing

Y-chromosome testing is for males only. This tests the Y-chromosome along a paternal line from father to son. There are several different types of Y-chromosome testing.
12 STR is a test of the 12 short tandem repeater markers. This is a male lineage test. It will determine a haplogroup, which is a group of like sets of DNA. The 12 STR test is good for genealogical testing. A match within this group supports a direct male lineage connection.
37 STR test is more detailed than the 12 STR. In this test, 37 short tandem repeater markers are tested. This is an ideal test for family genealogy purposes. It will identify paternal lineage as well as ethnicity.
67 STR test is one of the most elaborate tests done for genealogy and family lineage purposes. This test provides information about the paternal lineage and the ethnicity and geographic location of the person's ancestors.

Mitochondrial DNA Testing

Mitochondrial DNA is passed from mother to child. Testing the mitochondrial DNA will help determine the maternal lineage of a person. There are several mitochondrial DNA tests available. Most of these tests are used to help determine the maternal ancestry of a person. It is not used to test for paternity.
Mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA can be tested on several levels. HVR1 will only test mtDNA in the 16001 to 16569 range of the mtDNA. Another test that is more detailed will test the HVR1 and HVR2 ranges. The HVR2 range is the 00001 to 00574 range of the mtDNA. Finally the complete mtDNA can be tested. An exact match in any of these tests will help determine ancestry and ethnicity along maternal lines. If there is an exact match in the complete mtDNA, one can be sure that common ancestors exist in recent times.

Autosomal DNA

This is the test that is used to determine paternity. Maternity and siblings can be determined with this test. It is not ancestrally significant.

How to Test

The test will contain vials and sterile swabs or plastic scrapers. Using the swab or scraper, gently rub the inside of your cheek. Be careful not to rub too hard. No trace of blood should be on the scraper or swab. Paternity tests will include scrapers for everyone who needs to be tested. Paternity tests differ in that multiple related individuals have to be tested.