What it is
A paternity test is a laboratory examination performed to determine whether a man is the father of a specific child.
Today, the most reliable method for paternity testing is DNA analysis. In the past, blood groups, histocompatibility antigens, and certain proteins or enzymes were used, but with less accurate results.
After years of research, experts have concluded that there are combinations of DNA segments that are absolutely unique and characteristic for each individual. These segments are often inherited directly from parents to their offspring. If they are detected both in the potential father and the child, paternity is confirmed. Conversely, if there is a mismatch in the analyzed DNA segments, it indicates that the man is not the biological father.
Collection of Genetic Material
Genetic material is extracted from cells obtained from various sources, such as a standard blood draw from the arm, a swab of the inner cheek using a special spatula, or any biological fluid containing cells, such as saliva, hair, secretions, and even material from ear swabs or toothbrushes.
Paternity testing can also be performed before a child is born, after the 11th–12th week of pregnancy. In such cases, material is collected either through amniocentesis or from chorionic villi, which contain fetal cells whose DNA is analyzed and compared to that of the potential father. Cells can also be collected from cord blood during delivery.
Accuracy of Results
Paternity is certified with 99.9999% accuracy, with 0.00% deviation when using blood or saliva samples from the alleged father and child. The analysis covers 16 to 38 genetic systems in your samples.
Other Molecular Tests for Familial Relationship Identification
Familial Relationship Testing
This test is performed when individuals want to know whether they share a biological relationship with another person.
Sample type: Peripheral blood, buccal cell smear
Turnaround time: 2 weeks
Twin Zygosity Testing
This test can determine whether twins are monozygotic (from the same fertilized egg) or dizygotic (from different fertilized eggs). It may also be used for medical purposes in cases where one twin undergoes a transplant.
Sample type: Peripheral blood, buccal cell smear
Turnaround time: 2 weeks
Forensic Cases
This test is used in police or legal investigations where genetic identification and analysis are necessary.
Sample type: Peripheral blood, buccal cell smear, hair, other biological fluids
Turnaround time: 2 weeks