What is family tree DNA testing?

Have you ever wondered if you’re actually related to someone who shares the same last name? Have you wondered where your ancestors probably lived and where they migrated to? Do you want to learn more information about that mystery part of your family tree? If so, family tree DNA testing can help you obtain this information.

We can perform family tree DNA testing in a variety of ways to help you learn more about yourself, your family, and where you came from.

 How does family tree DNA testing work?

Before we can test your DNA, we must obtain a DNA sample. We do this by collecting buccal cells, or cheek cells, from inside a person’s cheek using a cheek swab made of cotton. This is a painless, non-invasive method of gathering DNA samples. After we have your DNA sample, we will remove everything but the DNA itself.

Each person has a unique set of DNA. All of a person’s DNA put together is called a genome. When people are related by ancestry, their genomes are more similar to each other than when they are not related. When we compare the genomes of multiple people, we are able to see how similar their genomes are, and thus understand more about the common ancestry of those people.

There are a few ways we can test your DNA to gather information about your genetic family tree:

1. Testing of your paternal line (Y-DNA testing)

Y-DNA testing is the testing of the Y chromosome in males to gather genetic information about that person’s paternal family line. Because females do not have a Y chromosome, they cannot take this test and will need to seek a different type of ethnic DNA testing. Y-DNA testing follows your direct paternal line and therefore allows you to gather historical and genetic information about people who share the same surname.

2. Testing of your maternal line (mtDNA testing)

The testing of your mitochondrial DNA is known as mtDNA testing. Mitochondria are the organelles inside your cells that provide the cells with energy. These organelles contain their own DNA, separate from the rest of the cell, and therefore we are able to test this DNA on its own. You inherit your mitochondrial DNA from your mother, so this DNA testing can provide information about your genetic maternal line. Both males and females inherit their mother’s mitochondrial DNA and therefore both genders are able to take this type of ethic DNA test.

3. Autosomal DNA testing

Autosomal DNA testing is the testing of all of your DNA besides your sex chromosomes. This can be done for both males and females and is usually the best option for ancestry DNA testing. With Y-DNA and mtDNA testing, you will receive information about your paternal and maternal lines, which can go very far back in history, but the rest of your family tree will be a mystery. With autosomal DNA testing, however, we can piece your complete family tree together to help you learn more about your family history.

If you are interested in any of these types of family tree DNA testing, contact us today to schedule a family tree DNA test appointment with the best AABB-accredited DNA testing lab in NYC.

References: 

https://www.dna-testing-adviser.com/EthnicDNATesting.html

https://www.vox.com/science-and-health/2019/1/28/18194560/ancestry-dna-23-me-myheritage-science-explainer

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003414.htm

https://www.smarterhobby.com/genealogy/family-tree-dna-review/