'Genetic genealogy' is the use of DNA testing in
association with surnames. This usually involves the use of the
paternally-inherited Y-chromosome that all males possess as this
is often the same path that surnames follow.
Certain genetic markers in 'junk DNA' are analyzed to provide a
result; string of numbers called a 'haplotype'. This haplotype
isn't medically informative or personally identifiable, but it
is possible to compare a person's haplotype with another person
to determine if they are related.
Comparisons are best made with people who share the same or
similar surname; you will share your haplotype with others who
are not related to you and so by using the surname too, this
significantly raises the probabilities that the two people are
genetically related when a match is found.
Testing companies send out swab kits to participants by post.
The Q-tip like swabs are gently rubbed on the inside of the
cheeks to collect a few buccal cells (which line inside of the
mouth).
These swabs are then sent for analysis where the DNA is
extracted, purified and the genetic markers under analysis are
amplified (which produces many copies of these small genetic
markers). The product is then fed through a genetic analyzer
which separates the markers out by size.
The size of each marker provides the basis for the results
produced. These results (the haplotype) can then be compared
with others with the same or similar surname.
To get an in-depth explanation,
click here (opens in a new window).
If I take a DNA test, will the results
identify the name of my ancestor(s)?
Your results will
establish your haplotype, then your results can be
compared with other people's results who are in the same
haplogroup. Further analysis by sharing ancestral
information can then be analyzed to
identify common ancestors.....
Then why should I take a DNA test?
First, and most importantly, before you
decide to take the test, be sure that you are prepared
psychologically! No kidding! Only serious genealogy
researchers and people who want to know "for sure" should
participate. One never knows for sure what might be hiding
in a Family Tree until they start doing genealogy research.
So, having cleared that up, why should someone take a DNA
test?
Because there are others who have been
tested and their DNA markers might match your results. If
so, then, working with others, you can identify common ancestors.
We keep a cross-reference database (by kit#, NOT by your
name) that shows the DNA marker matches and we show the
ancestor's name that you and others provide us. YES, you can
contact them and share genealogy information.
How do I get started?
First, you should decide which type of DNA
test to take.
There are 2 types of test - Y-chromosome
for men and mitochondrial mtDNA for females. In addition,
there are more complex tests that provide much more
information.
If you have watched some of the detective
shows on TV, you have heard these DNA terms. Right?
If I take a DNA test, what happens to the
test results and who will have access to the results?
OK, let's stop here! We at The Genealogy Tree would like for you
and your family to participate in this project and benefit
from this highly effective genealogy research tool.
The FIRST STEP is to take the DNA test.
You will be taking either the Y-chromosome (males) or the
mitochondrial mtDNA (females). In either case, when you get
your results, please contact us and let's get your results
integrated with other Howard researchers.
HAVE YOU TAKEN THE TEST???? If not, click on the picture below.
For more
information and instructions for ordering,
click on the following link:
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