Paternity Testing Procedures



Procedures for paternity tests have changed a lot. The latest and the most reliable is DNA testing. Also known as the genetic finger printing of a person, DNA analysis is considered to be 99.999% accurate.

At one stage, paternity tests used to include the use of HLA antigens, protein and enzyme analysis and ABO blood group typing. The next stage in development of paternity test techniques utilized restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to determine paternity. From there it moved on to DNA testing.

DNA Testing

It has been proven that an individuals DNA is identical in every non-reproductive cell in the body. And when sexual reproduction is practiced, a random combination of genetic material from both parents is mixed in to a new cell. So, an individual's genetic material is the result of the combination of genetic material from both parents. As the genetic material is found in an individual's nucleus, it is known as the individual's genome nucleus.

DNA Analyzing

It is possible to ascertain if an individual is responsible for the birth of another through DNA analysis for paternity testing. Specific sequences are studied to confirm if an individual's genome is the replica of another individual. This helps to establish if one person's genetic material is derived from another or not. These tests also help eliminate some one as a biological father. There was a time when paternity tests only excluded the existence of a father instead of confirming the existence of one.

DNA testing basically involves the collection of epithelial cells with swabs from the insides of the cheek of the concerned child and potential father. These cells contain the DNA sequences necessary for comparison and to establish the identity of the biological father.