Establishing Paternity by DNA Testing
Using DNA for Paternity Testing
So now we know that exactly half of our DNA comes from our mother and exactly half comes from our father. It is that principle that allows paternity DNA testing to be possible.
For paternity testing, the laboratory conducts the DNA testing by looking at 16 specific areas of each individual DNA sample. These areas are called loci (locus, singular). Since every individual has 2 copies of each chromosome, they will have 2 readings for each locus tested. The reading is in the form of a number. Once DNA testing is completed, the numbers for the DNA loci are compared. For each child's locus, one number must match one of the mother's numbers for that locus. The child's other number will match the biological father's.
<<DNA and Genetics
Results of Paternity DNA Tests >>
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