DNA Genealogy: Find Your Roots?

Medical and technological advancements have yielded insight into human DNA. An offshoot of this research is the rise in organizations that offer DNA genealogy services. For a fee, interested individuals can trace genetics and ethnic origins. Interested? The following is an overview of the advertised claims.

How It Works
A painless cheek swab is performed to get a DNA sample. The sample is processed and compared against a genetic library of other individual samples. Certain DNA markers are used to compare and categorize samples.

The male Y chromosome is passed unbroken from father to son and can provide genetic links. Mitochondria DNA passes from mother to child. Considering the number of relatives that expand over the generations, DNA genealogy can provide information for only a small percentage of ancestors.

Genetic Links
In addition to proving lineage (such as a paternity test) these DNA genealogy tests claim to be able to offer clues to genealogy several generations back.

The interest in genealogy has grown greatly due to online databases that make searching national records easier. Since the United States is a nation of immigrants most Americans have roots elsewhere. For those of Native American descent, DNA genealogy tests offer tests to prove this connection.

Several companies offer the tests and cost range based on type of test requested. Most tests cost less than $500 with some costing as little as $100. Some tests promise to provide insight into African or Jewish ancestry. Offering individuals clues as to which tribe they may belong.

While limitations to pinpointing ancestry exist, the interest in the service continues to grow. Individuals who choose to use DNA genealogy tests should prepare themselves for unexpected results and temper expectations. At present DNA genealogy cannot provide all the answers, but can offer a peek into one’s genetic past.