How accurate is DNA testing for the purposes of determining paternity?
DNA testing is the best available method for determining paternity. All human beings receive half of their DNA profile from their biological mother and half from their biological father. For DNA testing, DNA is extracted from samples submitted by all participants. The DNA samples are then analyzed using 13 or more well characterized DNA markers. These markers are detected using a chemical reaction called the polymerase chain reaction (or PCR). The final result is a “barcode” pattern like those found on packaged foods in the grocery store. If the alleged father’s barcode pattern is completely different from the child’s barcode pattern, then the alleged father cannot be the biologic father and is therefore excluded from being the father of that child. If they share DNA patterns in common and data is complete, then the alleged father is the biologic father with greater than 99.99% probability.
DNA testing is the most accurate method available for determining paternity. All human beings receive half of their genetic profile from their biological mother and half from their biological father. Once samples are submitted by all participants, testing begins with extraction of DNA from those samples. The analysis is then made by using a set of well-characterized (highly polymorphic) DNA markers. These markers are specifically chosen for their ability to display an array of differences throughout the human population. Many of these markers are the same used by police and government agencies use for the identification of convicted criminals in the CODIS DATABASE. The markers are detected by using a chemical process called polymerase chain reaction (or PCR). The final result yields a unique genetic pattern (genotype) for each person being tested. The patterns are then compared. If the alleged father’s genotype displays differences from the child’s genotype, then he cannot be the biolo
DNA testing is the best available method for determining paternity. All human beings receive half of their DNA profile from their biological mother and half from their biological father. For DNA testing, DNA is extracted from samples submitted by all participants. The DNA samples are then analyzed using 13 or more well characterized DNA markers. These markers are detected using a chemical reaction called the polymerase chain reaction (or PCR). The final result is a “barcode” pattern like those found on packaged foods in the grocery store. If the alleged father’s barcode pattern is completely different from the child’s barcode pattern, then the alleged father cannot be the biologic father and is therefore excluded from being the father of that child. If they share DNA patterns in common and data is complete, then the alleged father is the biologic father with greater than 99.99% probability. Are the test results confidential?
