Paternity testing is one of the results of what modern science can provide us with. With this type of testing, scientists are able to tell exactly whether a man is the genetic father of a child or not. What is the science behind this process, how does it work, and what different types of tests do exist nowadays?
The theory behind paternity testing
The science behind the paternity tests is the fact that the DNA of a child is made up to 50 percent of the DNA of the mother and 50 percent made up of the DNA of the father. The child’s DNA is therefore a mixture of different DNA strands that get combined in a unique way. Because it gets combined in a unique way, different siblings have different DNA, however, for all of them their DNA is half determined by the mother and the other half is from the father. Through modern science and with sample DNA of the subjects the scientist can now compare the DNA of the child to the DNA of the father. Through comparing these two DNA samples with each other, a clear conclusion can be drawn about whether a man is the genetic father of a child or not.
How does it work?
Usually the test works through a swab in the throat, however, there are different methods. When the DNA of both participants, the father and the child, has been collected these samples get sent into the laboratory where they are analyzed and compared. After these processes, the scientist can give a clear answer, which then will show the father whether he is the genetic father of the child or not.
What types of testing does exist?
Depending on what you need you can choose from different types of tests. When you simply want to know the result for yourself and not for legal purposes a home dna test kit can be enough for you. This type of testing is not recognized for any legal purposes, such as in court. If you need the test to be valid in court or any other legal institution, you will have to get a legal paternity test. These tests are recognized by the authorities. Another option that you have is to do a paternity test while pregnant. This can be useful in some cases, however, in other cases one of the two other tests might be a better choice.