4 Types of Commercial DNA Tests Available
Feb 18, 2019 | 0 Votes
by Milafel
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rate
DNA examinations can vary. Some of them may be ideal for only a specific group of people. The results can be limited up to a certain level of the family tree. This blog post will enumerate some of the common types of DNA tests.
The availability of DNA ancestry kits such as 23andMe and crime shows such as Criminal Minds and CSI lead to the growing popularity of DNA testing.
After all, these days, people don’t need to go to the lab to find out more about their lineage. They can buy a kit, obtain a swab, and send the sample by mail to the lab. They will then receive the report after a few days or weeks.
DNA examinations, however, can vary. Some of them may be ideal for only a specific group of people. The results can be limited up to a certain level of the family tree.
This blog post will enumerate some of the common types of DNA tests, but before that, let’s have a science lesson.
What is DNA?
The scientific field usually calls deoxyribonucleic acid or DNA as the blueprint of life. It is the self-replicating material that makes up the chromosomes. It also contains the genetic code that makes every person different from all the others.
The DNA and the chromosomes are within the nucleus, which is the center of a living cell. Around it is the mitochondria, which also contains a specific type of DNA.
In general, a person has only 22 pairs of chromosomes symbolized by the letters X and Y. These determine the person’s gender. An XX chromosome means the person is female while XY implies a male.
Why is it essential to know all these? The DNA tests largely depend on which part of the cell is being analyzed.
Kinds of DNA Tests
Now you know the basics of DNA and chromosomes, hopefully, you can understand better these common examinations:
1. Autosomal Testing
Usually, when you request for a DNA test, there’s a good chance it’s autosomal. This test analyzes the autosomal DNA, which refers to the 22 chromosomes, which means you’re looking into the traits you obtain from both your father and mother.
Because the coverage is broad, it is also the most comprehensive of all. It is one of the best tests to have if you want to know a lot about your ancestry.
2. Autosomal STR Testing
This is a more complex type of autosomal testing commonly used by those in the law enforcement. STR stands for short-tandem repeats.
As mentioned, DNA is a self-replicating material. The STR is a segment of the DNA that has been repeated over and over. With it, the DNA profiler will know how many traits a person inherited from every parent.
3. mtDNA Testing
The acronym mt here stands for mitochondrial DNA. It is a particular type of DNA since it will only come from the mother’s side.
Both men and women can undergo this type of test. It’s the test you need if you want to know if you share the same ancestry or lineage as another person who is also taking the same exam. This type of DNA hardly changes over time, so you may be able to trace your family further.
4. Y-DNA Testing
As mentioned, men have the XY chromosome, and this is the type of test that deals with it. It also means only the males can undergo it.
It’s an exam necessary to determine whether the man descends from the same paternal lineage as the other person taking the test.
Which test is right for you? It depends on what you want to find out. Either way, each can help you learn more about where you come from.
Featured DNA Kits
MyHeritage
If you're interested to learn more about your ancestry and ethnicity, or if you simply want to find a long-lost relative, MyHeritage offers reliable DNA testing services, an easy-to-use family tree builder, and access to a database of historical records that you can search through for mentions of your ancestors.
DNA Kit
DNA Kit's e-shop is no longer available. Check out other brands here: https://www.dnakitguide.com/recent_kits
Ancestry
Ancestry.com is, without a doubt, one of the more well-known commercial DNA testing services which check for your ancestry and ethnicity in the world! From the results you get, you can then connect with newfound relatives who share your DNA, construct your family tree, look up your family’s history, and essentially find your roots.
Living DNA
Living DNA is a commercial DNA service that aims to help you find your ancestry, trace your lineage, and basically, help you find your past. Unlike some DNA kit brands, this company is actually research-linked and works collaboratively with scientists, researchers, and genetic experts worldwide.
Vitagene
Founded in 2015 by Reza Malek, a highly-praised neurosurgeon from United States, Vitagene is a direct-to-consumer DNA testing company focused on health-oriented reports. Their unique approach and their price tag make them a serious offer in the DNA testing market.
23andMe
The first company to begin offering autosomal DNA testing for ancestry, ethnicity, connecting with living relatives and exploring haplogroups, 23andMe is currently the only genealogical testing company that also offers in-depth DNA health testing—screening for over 75 traits, diseases, and predispositions.
