How A Paternity Test Result Is Reached

Collection of DNA Paternity Samples

The first step in a paternity test is to collect DNA samples. This is done using a buccal swab, which is a fancy term for a cotton swab. It’s used to gently scrape the inside of a person’s cheek to collect cells. This process is painless and quick. The swabs are then carefully packaged and sent to the lab.

Extraction of DNA

Once the swabs reach the lab, the cells are broken open to get the DNA out. This is like opening a locked box to get the treasure inside. Scientists use special chemicals to break open the cells and extract the DNA.

DNA Amplification

The DNA is then copied many times in a process called amplification. It’s like if you have one picture of a puzzle piece, and then you make lots of copies of that picture. This is done to ensure there’s enough DNA to work with.

DNA Segmentation

The DNA is then cut into smaller pieces at specific points. These points are called loci (pronounced ‘low-sigh’). Each person has unique patterns at these loci, just like each puzzle piece has a unique shape. This is done using a special machine that can read the DNA and cut it at the right spots.

Comparison of DNA

The DNA from the child and the potential father are compared at these loci. If the child’s DNA matches the father’s at a lot of these points, then it’s likely that the man is the father. If not, then he probably isn’t. This is like trying to fit the puzzle pieces together to see if they match.

Paternity Test Results

The paternity test results are then compiled into a report. If the DNA matches at enough points, the report will say that the man is ‘not excluded’ as the father, which means he could be the father. If the DNA doesn’t match at enough points, the report will say that the man is ‘excluded’ as the father, which means he is not the father. We guarantee 100% accuracy on all of our DNA tests.