DNA test: what it’s used for and how it’s done
The DNA test is performed with the aim of analyzing the person’s genetic material, identifying possible changes in DNA and verifying the likelihood of development of certain diseases. In addition, the DNA test used in paternity tests can be performed with any biological material, such as saliva, hair or saliva.
- The price of the test varies depending on the laboratory in which it is performed.
- The target and genetic markers evaluated and the result can be disseminated within 24 hours.
- When the goal is to evaluate the person’s total genome.
- Or within a few weeks when the test is performed during verification of the degree of kinship.
The DNA test identifies possible changes in the person’s DNA, indicating the likelihood of disease development and the possibility of it being transmitted to future generations, as well as being useful for knowing their origins and ancestors. So, some diseases that can identify the DNA test include:
In addition to being used in disease research, DNA testing can also be used in genetic counseling, which is a process of those that aim to identify changes in DNA that can be transmitted to future generations and the likelihood that these changes will lead to the disease. . Understand what genetic counseling is and how it’s done.
DNA tests may also be done to verify the relationship between parents and children. To perform this test, it is necessary to take a biological sample of the alleged mother, son and father, which is sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Although the test is most often done after birth, it can also be done during pregnancy. See how the paternity test is performed.
DNA tests can be done from any biological sample, such as blood, hair, semen, or saliva, for example. For DNA tests performed with blood, the sample needs to be taken in a reliable laboratory and the sample sent for analysis.
However, some home collection kits can be purchased online or in some labs. In this case, the person should rub the swab into the kit inside the cheeks or spit into a suitable container and send or take the sample to the lab.
Molecular analyses are carried out in the laboratory so that the entire structure of human DNA can be analyzed and thus verify possible modifications or compatibility between samples, in case of paternity for example.