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Article #201: Understanding DNA Testing Methods

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There are two main methods which can be Polymorphism test takes longer than the
used for paternity DNA testing, namely, PCR test and is a slightly older method
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and RFLP but can provide more reliable results as
(Restriction Fragment Length each loci presents more information
Polymorphism). In this article we are regarding paternity. It requires a larger
going to be looking at these two methods, sample of DNA and is more likely to use
what the difference is and how they work. blood for the DNA testing but it can also
Polymerase Chain Reaction testing usually be done using a swab from the inner cheek
involves taking a swab from the inner if necessary.
cheek for DNA samples. It is a faster The AABB report from 2004 stated that
test than RFLP and usually looks at there is a decrease in the number of
between six and nine loci on the DNA. laboratories using the RFLP method and an
This test however does not provide the increase in laboratories using the PCR
same degree of information as is provided method of DNA testing with PCR being used
by the RFLP test. in 98.34% of the cases.
PCR DNA testing works by "amplifying" the In conclusion, there are two main methods
sample DNA, or taking a small sample of of paternity DNA testing that are mainly
DNA and then multiplying it. This is used today. These two methods are
useful if only a small sample can be Polymerase Chain Reaction testing and
obtained and is also useful for working Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism
with degraded DNA. When using PCR DNA testing. PCR testing is used in 98.34% of
testing however the laboratory needs to the DNA testing cases according to the
be particularly careful about preventing 2004 AABB report and seems to be
contamination within the sample as the increasing over the older method of RFLP.
amplification process could tend to PCR is a quicker method of testing and
increase the chances of contamination. multiplies the amount of DNA material so
The process of PCR DNA testing involves that only small samples are needed;
heating the DNA, adding primers and then however this does lead to a risk of
cooling it so that it recombines and an contamination. If you are going for PCR
enzyme reads the DNA sequence in order to testing or ordering a DNA home test kit
create multiple copies of the DNA. Visit you should ensure that they are AABB
for more info on genetic testing. approved and that they offer at least a
The Restriction Fragment Length 99% guarantee and test at least ten loci.






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