Cells of the human body are able to replace themselves before they die through DNA. DNA is the genetic material that contains the blueprint of the cell. This is the secret to the body's ability to maintain its' functions throughout or lifetime.
Types of DNA
There are different parts to DNA and each one has a specific function. Knowing the function of the different DNA components is useful to genealogists. Inside the cell is a small envelope called a nucleus. In this nucleus chromosomal DNA that consists of Y chromosomal DNA, X chromosomal DNA, and autosomal DNA can be found. Outside of the nucleus are located the mitochondria, which contain the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Autosomal DNA in inherited from both the mother and the father, Y chromosomes are passed from father to son, and mtDNA comes from only the mother.
Mitochondrial DNA
Mitochondrial DNA testing is employed when it is desired to trace the maternal heritage, but serves more to determine general relatedness than close personal relationships. Tracing maternal heritage is often times difficult due to the loss of the family surname upon marriage. Another factor is the prevalence of male records as taxpayers, voters, and landowners before women achieved equal rights. Mitochondrial DNA testing gives a way to trace the maternal heritage back several centuries. The mitochondrial DNA is passed from mother to offspring of either sex in an almost unchanged state. Thus the mDNA test can be used by males and females alike to determine distant female origins.
Genealogy DNA Test
Y chromosomal DNA testing is the most commonly used form of genetic genealogy testing. Genealogists can find out if two people having the same or similar surnames are related through Y chromosomes testing. Some people can even trace if a deceased man is related to them by conducting this test. yDNA is passed from father to son throughout generations in a virtually unchanged state similar to mDNA
The test is performed by collecting a swab of cells from the inside of the cheek, then the swab is mailed to the laboratory and the DNA is analyzed. Finally the DNA is compared to a data base of other DNA samples to find similarities. The test is painless, and can be conducted entirely in the privacy of your home.
Home DNA test kits can be ordered through the Internet and the tests range in price from $100-$400. The cost of the test depends upon what your information goals are. However, anyone can determine if they are a Native American descendant or they have Royal blood. DNA testing is likely to become less expensive with time, enabling more persons to have their DNA tested and adding more matches to the DNA database.
Melissa Slate - Melissa Slate has been a registered nurse for over 15 years. She has enjoyed many different functions in nursing, but her primary ...
