What is Biological Relationship Testing?
Biological relationship (also called DNA-based identity) testing involves comparing the amount of shared DNA markers from at least two people to see if they are related to one another. An example is parent and child. There are different types and purposes of biological relationship testing.
- Standard (Home) Paternity testing compares DNA markers from a child with that of an alleged father to determine if he is the biological father.
- Legal Paternity testing is used when the results need to be utilized in a court of law. Proper verification of the identities of all tested individuals is required, and a chain of custody must be established for all samples and documents involved.
- Relationship/Kinship testing compares DNA markers from two or more people to determine if they are related. Examples of testing include: maternity (mother - child), grandparent (grandparent - grandchild), avuncular (uncle/aunt - niece /nephew), cousins, or siblings.
- Twin Zygosity testing compares DNA markers to determine if twins are identical or non-identical (fraternal). This testing can be applied to higher numbers of multiples, such as triplets, as well.
- Immigration testing compares DNA markers from two or more people to determine if there is a biological relationship for the purposes of immigration. This is used when additional evidence is required by immigration to prove the biological relationship between a petitioner and a beneficiary.
- Prenatal testing is used to determine paternity during pregnancy. Like a standard paternity test, the prenatal test compares DNA markers from a fetus with that of an alleged father. Depending on the stage of pregnancy, a perinatologist or OB-GYN may use one of two procedures, chorionic villi sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis, to obtain the fetal sample. For more information about prenatal diagnostic procedures see Genetic Testing in Pregnancy.
When is Biological Relationship Testing Appropriate?
Some reasons why biological relationship testing may be used include:
- child support cases
- child custody/visitation cases
- immigration policies
- adoption cases
- insurance claims
- inheritance claims
- curiosity
- peace of mind
Biological Relationship Testing Considerations
Here are some considerations that may be useful to you when considering biological relationship testing:
- What are the implications of this testing for other family members?
- What are the psychosocial implications?
- Does the provider offer DNA storage options?
- Does the provider charge shipping fees, test kit fees, or other fees?
Biological Relationship Testing Providers
Biological relationship testing laboratories have different standards and policies, which should always be reviewed before ordering.
Biological relationship testing is widely available online (over the internet). The types of tests offered vary by provider.
Go to the Tests tab to link to the best providers, compare providers and read provider reviews.
Or, click here to see an expanded biological relationship testing provider comparison chart.