How does the parental DNA testing process work? The most important and popular use of DNA testing is the confirmation of the child’s biological parents. The confirmation of the child’s biological parents is crucial for clearing away doubts regarding the child’s birth. It is also very decisive for children’s rights and custody during conflicts or divorce between the parents.

Although other biological identification tests were in use before the advent of DNA testing process, but blood typing, HLA test, and serological testing were less accurate for determining biological relations. After the introduction of DNA testing during 80s, scientists discovered the potential of DNA testing for identifying biological relationships.

What is the process for Parental DNA Test?

DNA is the unique genetic make-up of an individual. When a baby comes in this world, the mother and father pass on half of their DNA to the baby. The baby’s DNA is a mix of the parent’s DNA with a unique sequence.

For parental DNA tests, we collect a small buccal sample of an individual, and then we obtain and examine the DNA sequence. We then compare the DNA from the samples of the alleged father or mother. The 0% matching gives a negative result. For a positive result, the probability between the parent and the child should be 99.9% or greater.

False Results

Although DNA testing process is highly advanced and we perform it very carefully, there are possibilities of false results. DNA tests from proper and certified labs and research centers have hardly any chances of false results. But the following situations can alter the results of a paternal DNA test.

• Fraud

If the DNA paternity test is done for a legal case, either of the parties might want to get hold of the test result and tamper it. Tampering test results is nearly impossible under strict regulations and when a proper and certified lab is performing the test. However, if any party can get hold of the result, they can tamper it for their gain.

• Lab Error

Deliberate fraud is not the only reason for false positive and negative results. Errors by the lab during the test process can also give inaccurate results. If you suspect that your test result is incorrect, this might be the reason, and you should have another test.

• Candidates may be Related

Even if the candidates are have a relation, the DNA test will not give a 99% probability in usual cases. However,  in some instances, it is possible. If the candidate has a relation to the kid, then the lab should conduct the test very carefully, and give results double-checking to be on the safe side.

• DNA Mutations

DNA mutations are alterations in the DNA sequence. They happen spontaneously throughout life and cause no interference in the DNA test result. But if a sperm contains a strand of DNA with mutation, the chances are that paternity test can give false negative result for  the father and child. Radioactive rays. especially from chemotherapy, and other sources can induce mutations in DNA. In such cases, using the DNA from the mother can increase the paternity index and give correct test results.

Final Thoughts

Paternal DNA tests are important when the rights and duties of parents are an issue, and the child’s paternity is in doubt. Getting paternity tests from a proper and certified lab is necessary to remove any chances of error. AABB DNA Testing offers a full range of services to validate family relations. AABB DNA Testing is certified and has court-admissible DNA tests.

Contact us at  718-701-0292 to get the best DNA testing in NYC.