Thousands of people in the country choose to take DNA tests. Your DNA contains a lot of valuable information that can tell you a lot about who you are, where you come from, and the history of your biological family.
If you think you already know everything about your family, you may still be surprised by the results of a DNA test. Many people who take DNA tests have discovered something new about themselves.
This is the best time to buy a DNA testing kit because there are so many options available in the market.
So if you are unsure about buying the best DNA testing kit, here are some questions and answers to help you understand these kits.
What exactly is DNA?
DNA is the basic code that makes up our bodies and actually stands for deoxyribonucleic acid. Think of it as a blueprint for the smallest substance that makes up all living things.
- Ultimately, they are four chemical bases that work together in different ways to instruct cells to make amino acids, which are then converted into proteins, which form organs and so on until a complete organism is formed.
- Just like a fingerprint, everyone's DNA is unique. Although all humans share about 99% in common, it is this final 1% that makes us all look and sound different and gives us our unique personalities.
What is the difference between an autosomal DNA test and a mitochondrial DNA test?
Autosomal DNA and mitochondrial DNA are two bands of DNA that can be used to test different aspects of a person's ancestry. Read on to learn more about the differences between these DNA tests.
- Autosomal DNA tests are the best DNA tests available. These tests cover both sides of a person's family and can be used to reveal a person's ethnicity, ancestry, and region of birth.
- mtDNA tests stand for mitochondrial DNA tests. Unlike autosomal DNA, this test takes all the information from the maternal side of a person's DNA. So these tests can be used to trace a person's biological mother, grandmother, etc. These tests do not provide as much information as autosomal DNA tests.
- An important point is that mitochondrial DNA tests do not include your mother's father, grandfather, or other male relatives.
What is a Y-DNA test?
- This DNA test is used to reveal the chromosome information inherited from your father.
- Only men can choose these tests. They can help trace and locate paternal ancestry and history.
- The test is also used to determine the biological father of a child.
What steps do you need to follow to test your DNA?
DNA testing providers offer simple home kits that make the whole process less daunting.
- You first choose a provider based on the type of tests they offer. You should check if it covers what you are looking for. Once you are ready, visit their website to register your details and order a DNA testing kit.
- Some providers offer free DNA kits. However, most other DNA testing kits require you to send your sample to these providers along with payment.
- lHome testing kits do not require blood to test DNA. Most of these tests use saliva.
- Some kits contain specific instructions and requirements for DNA samples, such as gum saliva or inner cheek swabs. If you are unsure, you can find the details on their website.
- Once you have your sample, you will need to send it to the provider. You need to be careful when doing this as there are specific rules about sending bodily fluids by mail. Don't forget to activate your kit and connect it to your online account. This will allow you to view the results online.
- DNA testing companies usually send results within 4 to 8 weeks. However, it may take longer for some people. You can check the results online or ask the company to send the results by mail.
