Testing Different Relationships with DNA Testing

DNA profiling technology has come a long way in the last few decades, and it is now possible to identify a number of difference biological relationships between any given person. Through using slightly more in-depth matching processes than with traditional DNA paternity tests, the wider testing methods available are nevertheless accurate enough to determine whether or not there is some biological connection to establish relationships and afford peace of mind, allowing families to greater understand their actual setup and resolve legal and medical disputes.

Paternity Testing
Probably the most common relationship examined with DNA testing is paternity testing. The methods used in this type of testing have improved to mean a greater degree of accuracy in judging where relationships do or do not exist. Whether it be for legal, medical or even just personal reasons, paternity testing is by far the most effective way of determining in just a few days whether or not a biological relationship exists between two people.

Grandparentage DNA Testing
In the absence of the alleged father of a child it is possible to determine a biological relationship with grandparents where either one or both are available. This can be particularly useful to determine biological links where the father has predeceased or alternatively where he is otherwise unavailable through testing. Whilst it is desirable for both grandparents to be present for testing, for reasons of ensuring greater accuracy and more conclusive results, it is also possible for the test to be carried out on one grandparent with a degree of accuracy in matching DNA.

Siblingship DNA Testing
An alternative testable relationship is that of siblingship - identifying whether two particular people share the same parents, where neither parent is available for testing themselves, for example having predeceased or having emigrated abroad. Whilst the most effective determiner is through testing both the mother and the father of the alleged siblings, it is more than possible to test the siblings on a DNA comparison to work out whether there is a relationship there.

Y-STR Male Lineage Testing
One of the most innovative DNA testing methods refined in recent years is the Y-STR male lineage test which allows identification of male biological relationships through testing the Y-chromosome which is passed down paternal lines and rarely changes throughout generations, allowing for more straightforward DNA comparisons. With Y-STR testing, it's possible to identify grandfather/grandson relationships, or even further relationships along vertical family branches.

Avuncular DNA Testing
It is also possible to examine where Avuncular relationships may be exist by testing the brother or sister of an unavailable parent, to determine whether a particular two people share a relationship of aunt or uncle with one another. This can be particularly useful in helping assess paternity where a father has predeceased with living siblings, who can be matched to the alleged niece or nephew.

Whether you require a DNA test for medical reasons, legal reasons such as determining inheritance in intestacy, or just for your own personal motivations, testing biological relations has never been easier than with DNA testing.

Kevin Camilleri writes articles for dna paternity test. Other articles written by the author related to paternity testing, home paternity test and paternity test kit can be found on the net.