The Advantages of STR Analysis in Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Testing

| January 24, 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of DNA paternity testing, non-invasive prenatal paternity (NIPP) testing has gained significant attention for its ability to provide clarity and certainty to expectant parents. However, not all NIPP tests are created equal. Among the available methods, STR (Short Tandem Repeat) analysis stands out as the best choice for accurate and reliable results when compared to SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) analysis, shedding light on its advantages in the world of DNA paternity testing.

The Science Behind NIPP Testing

NIPP testing analyzes cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) present in the mother’s bloodstream during pregnancy. By comparing specific genetic markers, laboratories can determine the likelihood of paternity with a high degree of accuracy.

Highly Discriminatory STR Analysis

Short Tandem Repeat (STR) markers are highly variable among individuals, making them ideal for paternity testing. They offer the ability to distinguish between closely related individuals and provide precise results, even in complex cases.

Improved Sensitivity

Compared to SNP analysis, STR analysis offers improved sensitivity in NIPP testing. SNP analysis relies on single-nucleotide variations, which may not be as sensitive in detecting certain genetic markers associated with paternity. STR markers, on the other hand, are more robust in capturing the necessary information.

Established Validation and Accreditation

STR analysis has a long history of use in forensic and paternity testing. It has been extensively validated and accredited by regulatory bodies, ensuring its reliability and accuracy. Laboratories performing STR-based NIPP testing adhere to stringent quality control measures and follow established protocols, making it a trusted choice for expectant parents.

Compatibility with Multiplex PCR

STR analysis is highly compatible with multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques, allowing for simultaneous analysis of multiple STR markers in a single test. This efficiency not only saves time but also reduces the risk of errors associated with handling multiple samples

When it comes to non-invasive prenatal paternity (NIPP) testing, the choice of DNA analysis method plays a critical role in ensuring accurate and reliable results. Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis, with its high discriminatory power, improved sensitivity, established validation, and compatibility with multiplex PCR, is considered the superior choice in the field of DNA paternity testing. When considering NIPP testing, choosing an accredited laboratory that uses STR analysis is a decision that offers peace of mind and confidence in the results.

The Accuracy of Non-Invasive DNA Paternity Testing: Can It Be Wrong?

| January 11, 2024

DNA paternity testing has come a long way in providing clarity and certainty to individuals seeking answers to questions of biological parentage. Non-invasive prenatal paternity testing has emerged as a revolutionary option for expectant parents.

Science Behind Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Testing

Non-invasive prenatal paternity testing relies on the analysis of cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) in the mother’s blood. During pregnancy, a small fraction of the DNA in the maternal bloodstream belongs to the developing fetus. By examining specific genetic markers, labs can determine the likelihood of paternity with a high degree of accuracy

High Accuracy Rates

Non-invasive prenatal DNA paternity testing is known for its high accuracy rates, often exceeding 99%. This is because the genetic markers used for paternity testing are typically highly specific and reliable. However, there are factors that can potentially affect the results. One of the rare instances where testing can yield inaccurate results is maternal contamination. This occurs when the mother’s DNA inadvertently contaminates the fetal DNA sample during the testing process. Laboratories take strict measures to prevent contamination, but it is not impossible.

Biological Variability

Biological variability is another factor to consider. While DNA paternity testing relies on established genetic markers, there can be rare genetic variations or mutations that may lead to inconclusive results. These variations occur very infrequently but can affect the outcome in a small percentage of cases.

Non-invasive prenatal DNA paternity testing is a remarkable advancement in genetic science, offering expectant parents a non-invasive and highly accurate method for determining paternity. While the procedure is generally very reliable, there is always a small margin for error due to factors like maternal contamination or rare genetic variations. However, these instances are exceptionally rare, and the overwhelming majority of cases yield precise and conclusive results

In summary, when choosing non-invasive prenatal DNA paternity testing, it’s important to select a reputable laboratory and consult with healthcare professionals to understand the process thoroughly. While errors can occur in any scientific endeavor, the high accuracy rates and rigorous testing protocols make non-invasive prenatal DNA paternity testing a dependable option for those seeking answers to questions of biological parentage.

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| April 22, 2023

When Jose De Leon saw his daughter in 1974, he couldn’t believe the resemblance, even though his girlfriend claimed the baby wasn’t his. However, genetic testing decades later reveals that De Leon was right all along.

Jose was 18 and his girlfriend Michelle was only 17 when Michelle discovered she was pregnant. Despite De Leon’s belief that the baby was his, Michelle insisted it wasn’t. Jose moved away from Michelle, but would often return to her neighborhood in hopes of seeing Michelle and the baby.

Jose joined the US Army and was stationed away for 2 years. He tried to keep in touch with Michelle and her daughter, Maliana, but despite his best efforts, he couldn’t locate them.

At 45 years old, Jose fell in love, got married, and had children. However, tragedy struck with the death of his son, his marriage resulted in divorce, and he raised his daughter, Kailani, as a single father.

For Christmas 2022, Jose gave his now grown-up daughter a 23andMe DNA test kit. In mid-January, Kailani was notified that she had a half-sister. It was Maliana!

Within minutes, Kailani and Malina exchanged numbers. Then Jose contacted Maliana, and a joyous reunion was planned for just two weeks later.

The reunited family is learning more about each other. They visit often, and Jose and Maliana couldn’t be happier to have found each other.

DNA Paternity Testing provides rock-solid answers to important questions like parentage and ancestry. With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships (grandparents, siblings, aunts/uncles).

Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

What’s Next

How to Protect Your Genetic Information

DNA Data Breach Lawsuit Settled Two Years Later

| April 8, 2023

DNA Diagnostics Center of Fairfield, Ohio, a private genetics testing company, has finally received the verdict of their lawsuit from 2021.

The testing center suffered a data breach in 2021 that exposed the Social Security numbers of 2 million people in Pennsylvania and Ohio. The data breach affected individuals who submitted genetic data between 2004 and 2012.

According to the report, DNA Diagnostics Center was given repeated alerts over a four-month period by a data-breach security monitor. The center overlooked these emails during the four-month period until they finally addressed the security breach.

Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle A. Henry reports that 12,663 Pennsylvanians had their Social Security numbers exposed. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said the breach affected around 33,000 people in Ohio.

The settlement states the company must pay fines of $200,000 to each office of the attorney general. It must also update its cybersecurity practices to meet industry standards.

“Negligence is not an excuse for letting consumer data get stolen,” Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said in a statement.

If you’re looking for a genetic testing company that takes security seriously, look no further than DNA Paternity Testing! We never sell or distribute your genetic information, and we utilize top cybersecurity practices to prevent data breaches.

DNA Paternity Testing provides rock-solid answers to important questions like parentage and ancestry. With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships (grandparents, siblings, aunts/uncles).

Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

What’s Next

How to Protect Your Genetic Information

Is Forensic Use of Genetic Databases Ethical?

| March 25, 2023

Millions of Americans have submitted their DNA through direct-to-consumer (DTC) DNA test companies such as Ancestry or 23andMe. These can help them fill in their family trees or locate long-lost relatives. Some test kits claim to give you answers for how to lose weight or predict future diseases.

These DTC DNA tests seem harmless, but there’s not much known about the storage of your genetic information. Some DTC companies are known to sell information to pharmaceutical companies and allow forensics to access their databases to solve crimes.

It’s no wonder that police departments want to access these extensive databases. In many instances, genetic databases have been used to solve cold cases–some of them decades old. They can also be used for current crimes and can help bring swift justice.

Some people praise the advancement of genetic databases in the fight against crime. However, others question the ethics of the issue.

When law enforcement looks through a genetic database, they investigate millions who they know could not have committed a crime. Your genetic information is viewed over and over again. There have even been instances where individuals have been falsely accused of a crime, and this causes extensive problems in legal fees and inconvenience or trauma for the individual.

If you want genetic information without worrying that your DNA will fall into the wrong hands, trust DNA Paternity Testing.

DNA Paternity Testing provides rock-solid answers to important questions like parentage and ancestry. With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships (grandparents, siblings, aunts/uncles).

Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

What’s Next

The New Way to Fight Cancer: Artificial DNA

Gel Manicures Can Cause DNA Damage

| March 11, 2023

If you frequent the nail salon and get a fresh gel manicure, you might want to re-think your nail treatment.

A new study published in the journal Nature Communications has found that radiation from nail dryers can cause DNA to mutate and proliferate cancer-causing cells.

We all know the correlation between tanning beds and skin cancer. Dr. Julia Curtis argues, “Tanning beds are listed as carcinogenic, and UV nail lamps are mini tanning beds for your nails in order to cure the gel nail.”

Since nail dryers only contact a small area of your body, it’s easy to think nail dryers are relatively safe. However, Dr. Curtis continues, “The findings contribute to data already published regarding the harmful effects of (ultraviolet) radiation and show direct cell death and damage to tissue that can lead to skin cancer.”

Even though it may seem insignificant, nail dryers can alter your DNA to produce cancer cells.

Luckily, there are ways to reduce your exposure to UV light from nail dryers:

  • Apply a zinc/titanium sunscreen on your fingertips and around your nail beds before your appointment
  • Wear UV gloves and cut off the fingertips
  • Try a different manicure, such as nail wraps or a regular manicure
  • Find a salon that uses LED nail dryers instead of UV nail dryers

DNA Paternity Testing provides rock-solid answers to important questions like parentage and ancestry. With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships (grandparents, siblings, aunts/uncles).

Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

What’s Next

How to Protect Your Genetic Information

Missing Florida Woman Identified Using DNA 37 Years Later

| February 25, 2023

DNA testing has many beneficial purposes. You can discover your family tree, heritage, migration patterns, and more. It can also be used in forensics, either to convict or exonerate suspects in a criminal case.

Another beneficial use for DNA testing is identifying missing persons. When DNA is used for a living person, there is often a heartwarming reunification story. When DNA is used for a deceased person, the state’s bureau of investigation can solve cold cases, and families have a sense of closure.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation closed a cold case recently–one that was open for 37 years.

The Floridian woman went missing in Seminole County, Florida, in the mid-80s. She was found injured with blunt trauma to the head and unconscious on the side of a highway near Newton, Georgia. She later died at a nearby hospital.

In 2012, the woman’s body was exhumed from her grave. New DNA tests were done in 2022, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation was able to identify her as Mary Anga “Angie” Cowan. GBI agents obtained genetic data from one of Cowan’s children to confirm the identification.

The report didn’t state if Cowan was targeted or if the blunt trauma to the head was accidental. There may be more investigation into her cause of death, but the DNA test was successful in identifying Cowan.

DNA Paternity Testing provides rock-solid answers to important questions like parentage and ancestry. With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships (grandparents, siblings, aunts/uncles).

Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

What’s Next

How to Protect Your Genetic Information

The New Way to Fight Cancer: Artificial DNA

| February 11, 2023

According to the Centers for Disease Control, there were 1,752,735 new cancer cases reported in the U.S. alone in 2019, with 599,589 people dying of cancer. For every 100,000 people, 439 new cancer cases were reported for every 100,000 people, with 146 people dying of cancer.

With such a high cancer incidence, scientists are scrambling to find new treatment options.

Now, the University of Tokyo believes they have a promising new solution: using artificial DNA.

The scientific team has tested their artificial DNA on cervical, breast, and malignant melanoma cancer cells in mice. So far, the team has been very effective in its approach.

Scientists artificially manufactured DNA shaped like hairpins to specifically target cancer cells. These are injected into cancer cells and attach to microRNA (miRNA) molecules that are overproducing in cancer cells. This activates a higher immune response than other cancer treatment methods.

Amazingly, the method both eliminated the cancer cells and prevented cancerous growth.

According to the team, “The results of this study are good news for doctors, drug discovery researchers, and cancer patients, as we believe it will give them new options for drug development and medication policies. Next, we will aim for drug discovery based on the results of this research, and examine in detail the drug efficacy, toxicity, and potential administration methods.”

This technology has a long way to go in development, but it is a promising new method that could save millions of lives in the future.

DNA Paternity Testing provides rock-solid answers to important questions like parentage and ancestry. With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships (grandparents, siblings, aunts/uncles).

Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

What’s Next

How to Protect Your Genetic Information

What Is DNA?

| January 28, 2023

At DNA Paternity Testing, we talk a lot about DNA! But after high school biology class, genetic code is something we quickly forget about. To understand the importance of protecting your DNA, you have to know what your genetic code is and why it matters. So here’s a brief refresher on DNA and genes.

What Is DNA?

DNA is short for deoxyribonucleic acid. DNA harbors your genetic code, and it is found in every cell in your body. Most of your DNA is located inside your cells’ nuclei.

Information is stored in DNA through a code using four chemical bases: adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T). A pairs with T and C pairs with G; these are called base pairs.

Each base pair is attached to a sugar molecule and a phosphate molecule, and then arranged into the recognizable double helix.

What Is a Gene?

Genes are made from DNA and pass down hereditary traits. Some genes code for proteins that perform different functions in the body, while others do not.

At conception, the fertilized egg takes on one pair of genes from the mother and one pair of genes from the father. Many factors play into which genes are expressed, such as living environment, diet and nutrition, and toxic exposures.

DNA and genetic sequencing is very complex, and scientists are still studying how genes pass on information. While there is still much to learn about genetic traits, luckily, parentage and ancestry is established and accurate.

DNA Paternity Testing provides rock-solid answers to important questions like parentage and ancestry. With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships (grandparents, siblings, aunts/uncles).

Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

What’s Next

How to Protect Your Genetic Information

Glioma Tumor Markers Found in DNA

| January 14, 2023

Gliomas are a formation of cells that grow in the brain or spinal cord. As they grow, they can press on areas of the brain and cause various symptoms. These symptoms depend on the glioma’s location in the brain.

Gliomas are not necessarily cancerous; some gliomas grow slowly and aren’t malignant. However, several gliomas are fast-growing and malignant, taking over healthy brain tissue. Non-malignant and malignant gliomas can affect adults and children, and gliomas can pass from parents to children.

Like every cancer, early detection is key to successful treatment. Late-stage gliomas are usually untreatable, while early detection can mean better and more effective treatment options.

However, gliomas are currently only detected through MRI and biopsy, which are costly, invasive, and potentially dangerous. Scientists must develop a better method to test for gliomas and potentially save thousands of lives.

Now, neurosurgeons at RUDN University have discovered potential glioma markers in DNA. These markers are located in microRNA, which are small sequences of nucleotides.

Genetic testing is an up-and-coming test method. The next step is for RUDN University researchers to conduct research on large samples and acquire data.

There is currently no test for gliomas–but that could change very soon! In the meantime, contact your physician if you have a family history of gliomas and have these symptoms:

  • Headache, particularly in the morning.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Confusion or a decline in brain function.
  • Memory loss.
  • Personality changes or irritability.
  • Vision problems.
  • Speech difficulties.
  • Seizures.

DNA Paternity Testing provides rock-solid answers to important questions like parentage and ancestry. With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships (grandparents, siblings, aunts/uncles).

Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

What’s Next

Can DNA Kits Predict Your Death?