What is DNA Testing?
DNA Testing Services (also referred to as protein testing services) have been getting more and more attention lately. With large companies like Ancestry.com and 23andMe, it’s no wonder people are curious about DNA testing services. But just what can you learn? What is DNA analysis and how does it work? Let’s explore some of those questions now.
DNA testing is a method that takes samples of a person’s DNA, which could be their hair, fingernail, skin, or blood, to analyze the structure of that person’s genome. DNA testing can help establish parentage (or lack thereof), ancestral history, and even help police investigate a crime scene.
Regardless of what DNA testing services are used, at the very heart of the analysis is DNA itself: Deoxy-Ribonucleic Acid. DNA is a self-replicating molecule that is the foundation of what keeps people moving, living and breathing. DNA is what makes you unique.
Uses of DNA Testing Services
What are some of the main uses of DNA Testing Services? DNA testing can be used for a variety of things. Though it requires very specific lab equipment, a DNA SEQ analysis can be done relatively quickly and at a much lower price than might be expected. Here are some reasons you might decide to make use of DNA testing services:
- Archaeology: That’s right, Indiana Jones would be proud. Archaeologists now use DNA tests to keep a genetic record of the progression of life throughout the centuries. This helps us maintain a better genetic record to understand where ancient people lived, and which ancient groups interacted with each other. Archaeologists can even use this to explore migration patterns of different groups of ancient humans.
- Paternity Testing: This is probably one of the most common things people think of when they hear, “DNA Testing Services.” Using DNA is the most definitive way of confirming who a child’s parents are. This could be done for legal reasons or simply out of curiosity.
- Finding Genetic Ancestors: Understanding where we come from has been an important part of our desire to belong. Because of the large amounts of interest people have had in genealogy over the last few decades, DNA tests can now be used to help a person understand where their genetic heritage lies. Understanding ethnic origins of ancestors can be fun, but it also helps us realize just how connected all humans are.
- Prenatal Genetic Tests: DNA testing services also play a more practical role in medicine today. Doctors can now use DNA testing to assess an unborn fetus for health problems. DNA testing can be used to estimate the probability and risk of certain genetic diseases. In addition to this, DNA testing can also be used to help identify cancer in its early stages, helping doctors and patients alike get critical care and make lifestyle changes necessary to mitigate cancer risks.
- Criminal Investigations: As mentioned previously, using DNA to help investigate the scene of a crime isn’t just for the movies. DNA tests are commonly used in criminal investigations today. In addition to helping solve crimes that were recently committed, DNA testing has also been used by the police to reopen past cases that went “unsolved” because of the lack of evidence. DNA testing is changing the game for our men and women in blue, as it gives them a new way to analyze evidence.
DNA Testing is only just beginning
It doesn’t matter what your interest in DNA testing is, there is a reason to get involved. DNA testing is still in relative infancy compared to other applied sciences. In fact, jobs in the biomedical field are expected to grow by 23%. As it continues to advance, the applications for DNA testing services are expected to grow more and more diverse, helping police forces, medical professionals, and everyday members of the human community.