Want to know more about your background? Or do you just want to know who really belongs to your family tree? Genealogical testing is becoming a popular choice for anyone interested in their family history, ancestors or historical country of origin.

What does DNA actually mean?

DNA tests are based on the 46 standard chromosomes that we all have from birth. Our genetic makeup is completely unique (except for identical twins) and does not change throughout our lives. The X chromosome comes from the mother, and the additional X or Y chromosome comes from the father. If the father contributes an X chromosome, the child will be female. If he contributes a Y chromosome, the child will be male. Every human carries mitochondrial DNA (a special genetic molecule) in their cells. This is inherited exclusively on the mother’s side. In genealogical research, the examination of mitochondrial DNA or the Y chromosome forms the basis for DNA testing.

What are genetic tests?

Genetic testing is used to determine information about hereditary material or personal ancestry. This compares your result with that of others in the database who belong to the same lineage, or with that of other ethnic groups in a laboratory. Do not worry, because the companies work very carefully and pay attention to privacy and data protection. These tests are not intended for medical use and cannot predict specific genetic disorders or diseases. DNA sampling is performed painlessly by swabbing the cheek (saliva sample) rather than taking a blood sample. This is good news for those who are afraid of needles.

What can genealogical tests of provenance analysis do?

With genealogical DNA testing, you can find out the origins of your paternal line by analyzing genetic traits (these are genes that code for certain traits). Some tests may also reveal the migration routes of your paternal ancestors back to recent years.

This can also be done with mitochondrial markers to determine your maternal ancestors. Using this method, you can find out which of over 200 populations you are most genetically similar to and what proportion of your ancestors are in each of the seven continental groups. This is especially useful for those who want to know what percentage of their heritage is African or European, for example. If you want to find out which of the known recessive gene variants for red hair you carry, you can get tested for the 40 known gene variants of the MC1R gene. This will help determine if you have a high or low likelihood of having redheaded children.

DNA testing services

When choosing a company to perform your genealogical DNA testing, make sure that the company operates according to internationally recognized standards.

How do the providers compare? 23andme? Myheritage DNA?

There are many providers on the market that will check your score with that of many users worldwide. It’s worth doing some research in this area if you’re interested in getting the most accurate results possible.

Providers like: myheritage dna, 23andme or ancestry send your test kit directly to your home and compare your ancestry with other users from all over the world.

What are you waiting for? DNA tests are available

Only with a DNA sample will you know where your ancestors came from. You may find other family members or relatives. It is definitely a step you should take!