DNA is the blueprint from which we are created. It comes from the combination of our birth parents’ own DNA and determines our outward appearance and general physiology. These strands basically tell everything there is about our genetic makeup. It is quite amazing how a thin, microscopic strand can hold such an abundance of genetic information.
The discovery of DNA and genetics began with the work of Gregor Mendel, whose famous experiment with peapods helped him to explain patterns of inheritance. DNA testing has come a long way since then.
Today, DNA testing gives us the ability to determine the identity of others more easily based on the smallest of biological evidence, from a single hair strand, to skin scrapings, to a drop of saliva. This has greatly benefited law enforcement and forensic detectives, who search for criminals every day based on minimal clues. It is also something used frequently in the medical field as well, as it can determine the origin of genetic disorders and can prove biological relationships between people.
Paternity testing is a common type of genetic testing and is requested for a number of reasons:
- Doubts about the identity of a baby’s father
- Dispute about an estate inheritance
- Adopted people wishing to be tested when a possible biological parent is discovered
- Brothers and sisters separated early in life wanting to prove blood relation.
Paternity testing is done by matching DNA samples from potential fathers. The person can submit a sample of blood or cells by scraping the inside the cheek. DNA paternity testing can also be done before a child is born through amniocentesis. Amniocentesis is the collection of cells from the unborn fetus on cells collected by inserting a small needle into the woman’s abdomen and withdrawing a small sample of the amniotic fluid by which the fetus is surrounded and has the same genetic makeup of the fetus as well. This form of DNA paternity testing can help determine the identity of the father by providing the baby’s genetic makeup and is also used to predetermine the health of the baby upon birth.
When used to determine the identity of a baby’s father, DNA paternity testing can be done without samples from the mother. Samples from both the baby and the potential father are compared to find similarities or shared genetic components sufficient to prove a biological relationship.
While blood samples are efficient for testing, many prefer to give cheek samples. The latter method is easier, less painful and more effective. When blood is used in DNA paternity testing, it provides red blood cells and white blood cells for testing. Red blood cells do not contain DNA, however, whereas white blood cells, which are less abundant, do. A swab sample from the inside of your cheek, on the other hand, can obtain millions of eligible cells, making an excellent specimen for DNA testing.
Because paternity testing can be performed so easily, it can be done by medical professionals, adoption agencies and even by online family tree services. You can even purchase your own DNA testing kit and perform the procedure on your own. Many people even choose to keep their own DNA records of their family members for identification purposes in case of an accident or death.
By Kelley Caner
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