September 2009 Archives

Understanding the Numbers and Symbols on your DNA Results

With all the information on various laboratory blog sites, I thought I would go back to a basic and review how to read the paternity test results.

The paternity test results will show allele (see DNA Dictionary for explanation of allele) sizes for the parties who participated in the test.  If the test indicates no allele size, it is considered that the same allele size is present at both loci.  When mother, alleged father and child are included in the DNA paternity test, the alleles that the child received from the biological father (called the obligate paternal alleles) can be determined by subtracting the mother's contribution to the child's DNA.  If the alleged father does not have the obligate paternal alleles at three or more loci, he is excluded as the biological father of the child.  If only a child and alleged father are tested, and they do not share any common alleles at three or more loci, the alleged father is also excluded.  When the alleged father contains the obligate paternal alleles at the loci tested, then he is not excluded as the biological father of the child.  While it is not necessary to have the mother tested to confirm Paternity, it is obviously a better choice to have all 3 parties tested so at least the mother's DNA is a known factor in the paternity index and probability of paternity figures.  

There are cases, where test results show a non-match for one or two loci.  This may indicate mutations which will require additional analysis but it may also indicate that a close biological relative of the tested alleged father (such as a brother, father or son) may actually be the biological father of the child.  Always, let your DNA collector know the circumstances of your case and if there are possible related males involved in the paternity.  Additional calculations can be performed to help address these factors.  However, it is best to have all possible alleged fathers tested to establish the true biological father.  DNA testing facilities can offer you Paternity Testing with additional samples prices so that anyone thought to be the alleged father can be tested.  Talk to your local DNA expert about the circumstances of your case, so that discretion is used during the actual collection.

The final results will indicate the Probability of Paternity expressed as a percentage.  This percentage is called Paternity Index (PI).  The PI is calculated  using a "prior probability of paternity" of 0.5 in the calculation  This prior probability is a neutral value (without bias) that assumes the alleged father is as equally likely to be as he is not to be the child's biological father.  A DNA test results with 0% PI means that the alleged father is excluded, or cannot be the biological father.  A PI of 99% and above means that the alleged father is most likely the biological father.  

When using a local DNA collector, you have the ability to ask questions before, during and after the DNA collection process. Take the time to understand what the results indicate - in the long run - when you doubts are erased - the child involved in the test will be given a solid foundation on which to build their life.   

In New Jersey, carefully consider who you chose to perform your DNA tests.  Whether you want a DNA test to confirm paternity, maternity or any other biological relationship, here are a few questions to ask :

1.)  Where are you located?

Just because a website buys up the name of your city and links it with the letters DNA does not necessarily mean, they are located in your city.  Internet savvy DNA testing companies are buying up site domains just to catch your attention.

The best advice is to work with your local DNA collections expert.  Someone you can go back to in 30, 60 or 90 days who will remember you, your circumstances and be able to assist you with questions or concerns.  If the 800 operator starts asking "what is your zip code?  "are you located near this intersection" - it suggests that they are not in New Jersey and will hook you up to an independent collector with no personal interest in providing you with good customer care.  Do you want your private information in the hands of a "consultant"? 

2.)  What are the accrediting institutions of your laboratory?

The minimum standard these days in DNA testing is the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB).  If that is the only accreditation the facility can offer you, then "BUYER BEWARE".  Most reputable DNA testing facilities should be able to list at least 3 - 4 other accrediting facilities including but not limited to:

College of American Pathologists
American Society of Crime Laboratories Directors International
Forensic Quality International FQS-IOC 17025
New York State Department of Health
Clinical Laboratories Improvement Act

3.)   Who will perform my DNA test?

Will the person you are speaking to on the phone be the same person who will perform the DNA test?  If not, then will you have to explain your circumstances all over again when you meet to perform the DNA test? 

4.)  Who will provide my DNA Test results?

Will the person you are speaking to on the phone be the same person collecting your DNA and providing you with the results?  If not, then how many people will know about your circumstances?  How many times is your information viewed? 

When you call the 800 numbers to ask questions about DNA testing, your name, phone number, address are all entered into "the" system.  Each time you phone the "800" number, someone else is viewing your information and history.  If you give personal information such as your Social Security or Driver's License number - how many people will be able to access your data?  Don't give a credit card deposit over the phone.  If you are sure you want a DNA test then a private DNA testing facility should take an appointment from you.  You don't give your local doctor or dentist a credit card deposit for an appointment, do you? 

5.)  Is the person performing the DNA test, vaccinated and innoculated?

You may have a newborn baby?  You do not want someone who is possibly infectious near your infant.  Check to make sure that the person performing the DNA test is up to date on vaccinations, tetanus and hepatitis and flu shots.   


Your DNA tests should be performed by someone in a private facility, preferably the same person you talk to on the phone and the same person who delivers your results.  Contrary to popular TV talk shows, your DNA test is a private matter and should involve as few people as possible.

Most DNA Testing companies can deliver DNA Paternity Test results in as little as 3 business days.  Fast turnaround time is not a selling point.  The price on most DNA Tests is about the same, in some cases you may be paying extra for that independent collector - so ask up front if the price being quoted to you includes the collection fees or not?   Ask if there are additional charges for faxing, extra copies, additional address fees?  Know ahead of time so that you are not surprised and forced to pay for something at the time of the test. 

You should be confident in the person performed the DNA test and assured that your DNA test results are secure.  We do not know where DNA and the science behind it will take us in the next 20 years - be careful of the "nationwide facilities" storing your data, using independent collectors and 800 calling features or internet access to your DNA results.  Your DNA is valuable and extremely personal to you.  Until the DNA industry is fully regulated, use your local DNA collector for such a private matter.

The DNA Lady owns a private DNA collections facility in Metuchen, NJ.  We have a private office that you may visit before, during and after the DNA collection process.  The DNA Lady has assisted families in New Jersey with private DNA tests to confirm paternity, maternity, siblingship, grand paternity.  The DNA Lady has also worked with the legal community on forensic DNA testing for criminal and civil cases.   We work hand in hand with U.S. Embassies in over 150 foreign countries to expedite the immigration process.  Our goal is to bring this valuable tool in human identity to the private consumer.   DNA is a fascinating subject - we have the answers to your questions and doubts.   

We usually write about how to get a DNA test, why you should get a DNA test, who should get a DNA test and the types of DNA tests that are available.  Today, we would like to focus on having a healthy baby so that we can get to do the Paternity and other DNA tests.

Eating a well balanced diet and getting regular exercise - that's all you hear these days, in magazines and in everyday conversation.  It is especially important during  your pregnancy to keep you healthy and to support your growing baby. 

Always, always, always - check with your doctor first.  Each pregnancy is different and each woman will experience something different during her pregnancy.  While these tips are meant to guide you on your way to a happy, healthy pregnancy - it is very important for you to meet with a doctor to review your circumstances and outline your plan. 

1.)  If you are planning a pregnancy, start taking prenatal multi-vitamins/mineral supplements about 3 months prior to your conception.  Supplements help fill in the gaps of any key nutrients that are missing.  Talk to your OB/GYN to find out which one is best for you.

2.)  Focus on Iron as an adequate amount of folic acid and iron is essential before and during pregnancy.  To decrease the risk of neural tube defects, take at least 400 mcg/day before pregnancy and 600 mcg/day during pregnancy.  Certain foods are also good sources of folic acid such as green leafy vegetables, whole-grain breads, enriched grains, citrus fruits and juices, nuts, seeds, dried beans/peas, and lentils. Check the labels of the supplements you are taking to insure proper dosage.   Iron is also found in red meats, dark poultry, salmon, eggs, molasses and fortified breakfast cereals. 

3.)  Eat Enough to support your growing baby.  Our mothers were told "you are eating for two".  However, today the guidelines indicate that you only need to consume an additional 300 calories per day over your pre-pregnancy caloric intake.  If you are carrying multiples or are thin to begin with, you may need additional calories and again we can't stress the importance of talking to your OB/GYN about these issues.  Take the time to write down your questions, in case you get nervous during a prenatal exam. 

4.)  Go for Whole Grains - this is good advice for anyone but your growing baby needs important B vitamins and you will need the fiber found in whole grain products.  Look for the words "whole grain" on the food labels.  Watch Oprah when she has shows about healthy foods - she gives very good advice about product labeling.

5.)  Eat your Fruits and Vegetables - OK - again this is old news, your mother always told you to finish the vegetables on your plate or you wouldn't get dessert.  I always had room for dessert but was too full to eat my vegetables.  It is an age old battle, but if you can conquer it during your pregnancy, perhaps you will take this new habit into your post pregnancy life and pass in on to your children as well.  Breaking a habit takes 30 days of concentration so maybe creating a good habit during 9 months of pregnancy will stick for a lifetime.  It is worth a try for you and for your new baby.

6.)  Calcium, calcium, calcium - even if you are not pregnant - women don't get enough calcium - teeth, bones, skin, hair all need sufficient amounts of calcium to remain healthy.  If you live in the Northeast think about increasing dosage over the winter months.    The Recommended Daily Amount has changed over the last few years so check with your OB/GYN for the right amount for you.  

7.)  Limit caffeine and of course don't drink alcohol.  Remember caffeine is found in green and black teas, cola drinks, chocolate.  These products cross through the placenta and into your baby's system. 

8.)  Fish - now's the time for those lobster dinners.  Fish and shellfish are loaded with nutrients.  High quality proteins and essential omega-3 fatty acids help promote your baby's brain development.  To avoid harmful mercury, stick to salmon, light tuna, anchovies and sardines.

Follow these guidelines, visit your OB/GYN regularly, eliminate stress in your daily life, get enough exercise  (says the pot to the kettle) and get enough sleep - chances are you'll deliver a happy, healthy baby. 

If your partner has any doubts about paternity, tell him you will schedule a non-invasive DNA test as soon as the baby is born - but for during  your pregnancy - you need your partner's emotional support.  If you partner is insistent on confirming paternity now, you can schedule a PreNatal Paternity Test but only if your OB/GYN recommends you for prenatal genetic testing should PreNatal Paternity Testing be considered. 

Who Can Answer Your Immigration Questions?

Private Attorneys: Call the American Immigration Lawyers Association at 1-800-954-0254 for a referral.Also, check for other "Accredited Representatives" at the following: www.usdoj.gov/eoir/statspub/raroster.htm

There are NO new amnesty laws

There are proposed changes in immigration law but these are only proposals and are not laws; no one can apply for lawful permanent residency under those proposals

You cannot apply for lawful permanent residency because you have been in the United States for a long time unless you have lived here continuously since January 1, 1972

If you apply for employment authorization or lawful permanent residency when you do not qualify, the Department of Homeland Security will start removal proceedings against you, which may result in your removal from the United States

A lawful permanent resident may lose this status if he/she commits a crime or if he/she is outside the United States for more than six months without advance permission from the Department of Homeland Security

Only go to an attorney or accredited representative if you have immigration questions

Lawyers must have a license to practice law - ask to see their law license

Accredited representatives have to be accredited and work for an agency recognized by the Board of Immigration Appeals - ask to see their accreditation documents

Never sign an application with false information

Never sign a blank form

Ask for copies of everything you sign

Get a second opinion before filing any immigration application, especially if the advice sounds too good to be true

If You Are a Victim of Immigration Fraud, Report it to the Attorney General of the State in which you legally reside.

Finally, one of the fastest methods of moving through the immigration process is by positively identifying the biological relationship to your beneficiary(s). An AABB accredited DNA collections/testing facility can perform a simple, non-invasive DNA test to confirm paternity, maternity, grand paternity/grand maternity, full sibling vs. half sibling vs. unrelated and avuncular (aunt/uncle) biological relationships. See the DNA lady's glossary of terms for more information. DNA tests are the gold standard in human identification. Call your local DNA collections expert, to schedule a DNA test for yourself and for your beneficiary.The results of these tests are sent directly to the US Citizen and Immigration Service Center, National Visa Center, U.S. Embassy or the National Passport Office, whichever government entity you are working with to reunite with your family.