Is there DNA testing For ethnicity? Genetic testing is a personal decision. In fact, it is for those people who have an interest in learning their lineage through male and female ancestral lines. Although it is exciting to know your ethnic background and its mix, the decision to get the test done can be a bit confusing and complex. Nonetheless, by hiring the right DNA testing company, you will get accurate results. Bear in mind that you should consult a genetic counselor to help you learn the emotional and psychological effects of knowing your true lineage.

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Often, people find results that are far from their expectations. Hence, it overwhelms them to know their true lineage and ethnic mix. Still, you should know that living in the present, learning about your ancestors is just about studying genealogy. Having an ancestral line that you wish you didn’t have doesn’t impact who you are today.

So, let’s get to the main question: Can you test for ethnicity?

What is DNA Testing?

Genetic testing is also DNA testing, which involves observing any changes or alterations in the proteins, genes, or chromosomes of a person. This medical test can help rule out the chances of developing a serious or acute genetic condition. Furthermore, genetic testing reveals if you have any genetic mutation that you may pass down to your children. This is important because many couples and families rely on such data to plan their pregnancies.

This is what typical genetic testing, also used for genetic ancestry testing, looks to identify:

Proteins

Genetic testing can identify changes that occur in the activity levels of any enzymes or proteins. These abnormalities indicate any changes in the DNA, which might lead to the development of genetic disorders.

Genes

Genetic mutations are responsible for increasing a person’s chance of developing and experiencing genetic disorders. Experts can study these genetic mutations through gene tests that help them learn the DNA sequences of an individual.

Chromosomes

Chromosome tests are genetic tests that analyze and evaluate the changes (if any) on the long DNA strands or entire chromosomes. Often, changes to these two features of DNA sequences and genetic order can lead to developing genetic conditions in a person.

Benefits of DNA Testing (Genetic Testing)

Why should you perform DNA testing (genetic testing), if not for legal reasons, such as immigration and determining paternity/maternity for child custody? Test results can affect the level of comfort and relief a person might have. In case of suspecting a disease through genetic disorders, a negative test report might relieve the individual. What’s more, they may not require additional checkups and incur unnecessary health care expenses.

On the other hand, positive test reports can guide a person toward better prevention and treatment options after learning about their present genetic conditions. Genetic testing helps people make informed decisions. Importantly, newborn screening tests (genetic testing) can help identify any underlying genetic conditions in an infant. Hence, people can begin early treatment right from the start.

DNA Testing for Ethnicity: DNA Testing Types to Reveal Your Ancestry

·       Y-chromosome

Y-chromosomes are exclusive to males. This means that a man can determine his ethnicity mix directly through his male ancestral line. Moreover, y-chromosomes pass down from father to son, like the surname. Therefore, there are speculations and attempts to find any DNA matches between families with the same surname.

·       Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP)

SNPs tests include evaluating a huge proportion of genetic variations in the entire genome structure of an individual. Experts compare your test results with the test results of those who have already undertaken the SNP testing. This helps individuals reveal their ethnic background mix by finding DNA matches in other people’s test results. It is better than other ethnicity and ancestry lineage determining tests because it provides an overall estimate of an individual’s ethnic background and mixes.

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·       Mitochondrial

Mitochondria are the powerhouse of a cell that produces proteins. While there is DNA in the nucleus of every cell, mitochondria carry their own form of DNA strands which provide them instructions. You should know that mitochondria DNA isn’t exclusive to females. However, they do pass down solely from a female ancestor, which means that they are a suitable way of finding your ethnic background through your female ancestral lines.

DNA Testing For Ethnicity: Conclusion

Do you want to have DNA testing performed for legal or personal reasons? Do not choose a DNA testing services provider without adequate consideration. Pay attention to whether the company uses standard procedures, equipment, and lab setting to perform DNA testing. More so, you should learn whether the DNA testing services provider is AABB-accredited or not.

With AB DNA Testing Services, you can have peace of mind, as we are AABB-accredited, use modern equipment, have standard procedures, and employ friendly and professional staff.

AB DNA TESTING SERVICES
63-11 Queens Blvd.
Woodside, NY 11377
718-701-0292

 

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Reference Links:

https://www.businessinsider.com/what-genetic-testing-can-tell-you-about-race-or-ancestry-2015-11
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/257463634_Genetic_Testing_in_Children
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7082057/
https://read.dukeupress.edu/demography/article/58/3/785/173155/Measuring-Race-and-Ancestry-in-the-Age-of-Genetic