Understanding Your Paternity Test Results
One of the most common types of testing services DDC provides is the trio paternity test. This test includes the mother, child, and alleged father. Our clients are often eager to know what their result report might look like.
In a trio paternity test, cheek swab samples are taken from the three people to be tested: the child, the mother and the child’s alleged father. (While DDC does provide motherless tests, having the mother’s sample aids in the analysis and is strongly encouraged.)
Each person has 2 sets of DNA markers (called alleles) that make up their unique DNA profile. One set is inherited from the biological father, and the other set from the biological mother. Upon analysis of the DNA samples, scientists can determine which alleles on the child’s DNA come from the mother and look for matches between the child’s remaining alleles and those of the alleged father. Paternity can be established if there is a match of all markers. If they don’t match, the alleged father cannot be the biological father. At DDC, all samples are tested twice using the DDC Dual Process™, which ensures 100% accuracy in the results of the test
On the printed report of the DNA paternity results that our clients receive, there are three columns displaying the markers (represented by numbers) found in each tested person’s DNA—one column for the mother, one for the child and one for the alleged father. This report lists each marker that was examined and provides the statistical calculations that compare the chances of two random individuals in the population having the same matching markers. Together, the markers’ match or non-match and the population statistics provide the final result for determining paternity.
The report also provides a verbal interpretation of the results that states whether or not the alleged father could be the biological father of the child in question. This interpretation is written in either one of the following scientific terms: “excluded” or “not excluded.” If excluded, the probability of paternity is 0%, meaning that the alleged father is not the biological father. If not excluded, a probability of paternity is given, usually 99.9% or higher, that the alleged father is the child’s biological father.
All data and results are independently reviewed by two PhDs, who are experts in DNA analysis. The final report is signed by the laboratory director or his designee. Because all DDC paternity test processes follows proper chain of custody procedures and the report is notarized, the results are legally defensible in a court of law.
For more information on how to read your results, or if you have questions about our testing process, call 1-800-613-5768 or visit our Paternity Testing page.
This entry was posted
on Monday, March 17th, 2008 at 8:38 am and is filed under DNA Paternity Testing.
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