What is a DNA paternity test?
A DNA paternity test is a genetic test used to determine whether a man is the biological father of a child. A child inherits approximately half of their autosomal DNA from their biological mother and half from their biological father. By examining highly variable genetic markers in the child and alleged father, a laboratory can assess whether their genetic profiles are consistent with a biological father-child relationship.
Frequently asked questions about paternity testing
How is the test performed?
Most paternity tests can be performed using a painless buccal (cheek) swab. Cells are collected by gently rubbing a sterile swab against the inside of the participant’s cheek. DNA is extracted from the collected cells and analysed using validated genetic markers. Depending on the laboratory method, multiple Short Tandem Repeat (STR) markers are analysed and compared between the participants.
Who needs to provide a sample?
A standard test involves the alleged father and child, known as a duo paternity test. Where available, testing the mother as well can provide additional genetic information; this is called a trio paternity test.
What does "cannot be excluded" mean?
When the tested genetic markers are consistent with biological paternity, the alleged father may be reported as not excluded/cannot be excluded as the biological father. Statistical calculations are then performed to determine the strength of the genetic evidence.
What does "excluded" mean?
If the genetic findings contain sufficient confirmed inconsistencies with biological paternity, the alleged father is excluded as the biological father.
What are PI and CPI?
The Paternity Index (PI) expresses the strength of the genetic evidence at an individual genetic marker. The Combined Paternity Index (CPI) combines the evidence from the informative markers examined and is used to calculate a probability of paternity under specified statistical assumptions.
What sample is required?
Cheek swabs are commonly used because collection is simple, painless and non-invasive. Other specimen types may sometimes be accepted \u2014 contact OncoGenomics before submitting an alternative specimen.
Can paternity testing be used in court?
Yes, but a test intended for legal purposes requires appropriate participant identification, witnessed collection, documentation and chain-of-custody procedures. A privately collected peace-of-mind sample should not automatically be considered suitable for legal proceedings.
Is the test confidential?
Genetic information is sensitive. Samples, participant information and reports should be handled according to applicable laboratory confidentiality, privacy and quality-management requirements.
A paternity result should be interpreted from the complete laboratory report rather than from individual STR markers alone. For assistance understanding your result, contact OncoGenomics Institute of Precision Medicine, Forensics & Translational Research. For educational purposes only \u2014 individual cases should be discussed with an appropriately qualified professional.
Have questions about your paternity test results?
Contact OncoGenomics Institute for assistance understanding your results.