DNA testing in its widest context can represent a number of different techniques and protocols, all aimed at providing information about the genetic make-up of an individual. For example, some of the most common applications of DNA testing include:

Paternity Testing DNA testing can be used to virtually prove if an alleged male is the biological father of a child where the mother is known.

Forensic Testing DNA testing is widely used in the forensic community to place criminals at scenes of crime, or to demonstrate contact between two individuals, where DNA containing material such as blood, semen or saliva has been transferred.

Genealogical Testing DNA testing is used to trace or to confirm relationships with ancestors that may or may not be alive today. Furthermore genetic lineage can be followed through generations, by looking at the degree of commonality or variation between the DNA of one individual and a biological relative.

Species Identification DNA testing is now routinely being used to help identify the source of material confiscated by the authorities. The usual request is confined to species identification.

Of all the various uses, of which there are many more, the most commonly used and often misunderstood application is that to Paternity testing. DNA Paternity testing is only about 15 years old, and makes use of the fact that an individuals DNA is derived from each of the parents, fifty percent coming from each parent. Therefore if the DNA of the child is analysed alongside the mothers, it follows through that any DNA present within the child that does not come from the mother must come from the Father. This inheritance pattern allows us to compare the unaccounted for DNA in the child against putative Fathers.

If a suggested males DNA profile does not match the additional bands present within the child, there can be no doubt, given the test has been carried out under strict laboratory processes, that the male can not be the biological father of the child. However if there is a match between the DNA from the male and the DNA from the child, the degree of match needs to be evaluated, before any conclusions can be drawn. This degree of match of the outcome (inclusion) is measured in a figure known as the paternity index (PI), and is often expressed as a percentage certainty.

Irrespective of the type of DNA testing you would like, done, there are some fundamental standards that your testing company should adhere to. These include a strong quality ethos, supported by an externally accredited scientific process. Duplication of any reported results is a must, and if the results are to be used in a court of law, there are additional safeguards that are required. Make sure all of this is clarified before you commission any DNA testing work.