The Molecules in DNA are passed down through generations, DNA strands are embedded with coded information which is responsible for an individual’s characteristics and habits. The DNA sequence differs from person to person much like fingerprints. The minor variations in the DNA are what determine the line of generations; DNA is present in every cell of the body and can be taken from the lining of the skin to follicles of hair for genotyping.

Fun Fact: Human and chimpanzee DNA is 98% similar, whereas human and cabbage share 40 to 50 % of DNA. DNA research dates back to the 1800s; Friedrich Miescher first discovered nucleic acid in our white blood cells. Later the molecules that make up the DNA was discovered along with the discovery of RNA (ribonucleic acid).

DNA is present in all cells, and despite variations, cell maintains the genetic code. This property of  DNA leads Cricks and Watson’s discovery of the double helix structure of the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). This was a milestone in the history of biological science and lead to an understanding of how genes control the chemical processes. DNA is intriguing the things it can discover are beyond anything biology has ever seen, here are five awesome things a DNA test can do.

Lose Weight

Scientists are working on understanding the ability of DNA to either gain or prevent weight gain. Why some people gain 10 pounds by eating the same things that others don’t, the answer lies in our DNA.  Scientists are working on gene variants that might give humans the opportunity to negate obesity, studies conducted on rats have shown the regulation of fat is controlled by the genetic makeup of our DNA. No exact relationship between exercise and DNA diet has been derived yet, but scientists are working on discovering how obese genes can be modified through DNA.

Future

When expecting, the main concern for to-be parents is the health of their child. DNA testing can determine whether the child has any abnormal chromosomes that can cause genetic disorders. This is done by taking a sample of blood from the mother and saliva from the father. Research is being carried out to use DNA testing in determining whether the child will have any disorders such as autism.

Family Tree

A DNA test can determine genetic ethnicity, and this can help you find your relatives through generations gone. A DNA test can find out thousands of people alive today that are related to you. For this, your DNA is compared to other DNA samples from around the world which results in a family tree map.

Archaeology

DNA testing is one of the most powerful tools in determining the time of existence and the true identity of an ancient species of animals or a buried skeleton. It helps find out who the tooth or bones that are often found during archaeology excursions belong to. DNA testing has facilitated the solving of many un-earthed mysteries of archaeology. Hair, traces of blood or skin left at the crime scene can narrow done the scope of any investigation, and the odd presence of someone’s DNA and the person is not supposed to be there can lead to catching the culprit. DNA is an excellent source of finding the assailant and relieving innocents of unfair imprisonment.