What are DNA Tests?
DNA tests, also known as genetic tests, are medical checks that look for variations or mutations in your genetic sequence. Through blood, hair, or bodily fluid samples, these tests check for changes in your genes, proteins, or chromosomes. By identifying the variations in genetic code, they can map out your family history, assess the likelihood of inheriting a genetic condition or estimate your chances of developing a disease.
Although a doctor may request a genetic test for medical reasons, many people purchase at-home DNA kits out of curiosity and to learn about themselves.
Privacy Considerations with DNA Test Kits
As the popularity of DNA testing increases, there's a growing concern about privacy and data security. Common worries include the possibility of sensitive genetic information being released without your permission to third parties or the commercialization of personal data.
For example, companies may use genetic information for research and product development without authorization or consent. Some insurance companies may also use this data to determine eligibility or set premiums.
Before taking an at-home DNA test, consider the potential consequences. Sharing genetic information is a personal decision that requires careful deliberation and an understanding of both the potential benefits and risks.
Privacy and DNA Test Kits: Should You Share Your Data?
Before submitting your DNA sample for analysis, familiarize yourself with the privacy policies and potential risks involved. DNA test kit companies can collect, store, and use your genetic information for various purposes, including research, product development, and marketing. Data may also be accessed by law enforcement.
Most providers post their policies online or with product packaging so be sure to carefully read over all terms and conditions.
Another consideration should be that you and your relatives have similar genetic sequences. When sharing your genetic code, you're also sharing your family's data. Be mindful of the information you share online and only use secure digital storage that maintains safe access to your results.
How Does DNA Testing Work?
DNA testing analyzes genetic material to determine specific information about your traits, ancestry, and hereditary health risks. To test your DNA, companies generally follow these steps:
- A DNA sample is collected from your blood, saliva, or hair and submitted through a test kit.
- The sample then goes to a laboratory for analysis.
- Laboratory technicians make multiple copies of the DNA through a process called amplification.
- The amplified DNA undergoes analysis through techniques like sequencing, to identify certain genetic markers.
- This analysis informs the DNA testing kit's final results.
Using the DNA Testing Kit: Step-by-Step Guide
Using a DNA kit is a simple and convenient way to collect genetic material and send it to a laboratory for analysis. Reputable DNA testing companies include step-by-step instructions to guide you through the collection process and ensure the most accurate results.
To use the kit, you need to collect a saliva sample, usually through a cheek swab. (Although, some kits may require a blood sample). The instructions provided with the kit will guide you through how to collect the sample and how much saliva you'll need to submit.
If the DNA test kit instead requires a blood test, it'll instruct you to collect a DNA sample by pricking your finger with a lancet, gently massaging the finger to increase blood flow, and filling a supplied blood tube.
In the final parts of the testing process, you'll register the sample online using a barcode that matches your specific kit. The testing kit will include detailed instructions for finalizing your sample, along with return shipping packaging, cost information, and the expected turnaround time to process your results.
Different Types of DNA Tests
As genetic testing technology advances, so does the versatility of DNA tests. As a result, they're classified into several different types, based on the specific information they reveal. Below are the seven most popular types of DNA testing you should know about:
Family Tree Builders & Genealogy Tests
Genealogy tests like 23andMe and MyHeritage use DNA-based genetic markers to determine your ancestry—and also offer family tree-building tools. This lets you leverage genealogy test results to create a visual family tree. Although you can use one without the other, many people enjoy using the tests and family tree tools together to capture and organize their findings.
With this information, you can learn more about your background, including where your ancestors came from, their migration patterns, and their ethnicity. Family tree builders and genealogy tests are a fun and informative way to explore your ancestry and family history.
Sibling DNA Test Kits
Sibling DNA test kits may be particularly helpful in confirming genetic bonds between brothers and sisters, or reliable parentage testing (if one or both parents are unavailable or deceased). This type of DNA relationship testing also helps establish legal relationships for inheritance or immigration purposes.
Paternity Tests
Paternity tests are often used to compare the DNA of a child with their potential father's, to see if it matches. A positive result indicates that the man is indeed the child's biological father.
Paternity tests are usually done to establish or prove legal parentage, and assist with child custody or support arrangements.
Ancestry Tests
Otherwise known as genetic genealogy, ancestry DNA testing determines your ethnic background and family history. These tests can fill in any gaps you may have with historical records, and confirm stories from relatives.
Because ancestry tests make ethnicity estimates based on genetic data, some are designed specifically for certain populations. For example, certain kits have an extensive database of African American and Asian genetic information and provide detailed and specific results for descendants of these ethnic groups.
Health Tests
Health DNA tests analyze your DNA to identify any genetic markers or variations that could indicate an increased risk for certain health conditions or diseases. They provide health information that can shape daily lifestyle choices, medical decisions, or treatment options.
In addition, several health DNA tests are designed to detect carrier status for specific conditions, such as sickle cell disease.
Note: You shouldn't use health DNA tests to diagnose illnesses or diseases without the guidance of your healthcare provider.
Gene Therapy
Gene therapy is a medical process that aims to prevent and treat genetic disorders. It does so by identifying the underlying issue and modifying genetic material within your cells.
This process may include replacing a mutated gene with a functional one, deactivating a disease-causing gene, or introducing a new gene to fight a particular disease.
Although gene therapy is still in early development, it could treat or cure many genetic diseases, including diabetes, cystic fibrosis, and cancer.
Forensic Tests
Using techniques