We test 16 genetic markers in a standard paternity test. If needed, our laboratory can test 8 more to generate more conclusive results. So what is a genetic marker, and why is it important? A genetic marker is a segment of DNA with a known physical location on a chomosome. DNA technicials can follow the inheritance of these genetic markers. A genetic marker can be a gene, or it can be a piece of DNA with no known function.
DNA sections that lie near each other on a chromosome tend to be inherited together. Therefore, markers can be used as a way of tracking the inheritance pattern of a gene that has not been identified, but location is known.
Genetic markers are used for different things, but the primary uses are for identity and genetic knowledge. Markers show us what makes us the same and what makes us different. Siblings share many alleles, which are located at genetic markers. So does a mother and her children. The 16 genetic markers used in our paternity test will determine conclusively if a man is the father of a child. The more markers tested, the more conclusive the results.
Markers can also be used to study inherited diseases. This is done by studying how genetic markers relate to specific diseases. Genetic testing for diseases is relatively new, and companies are making breakthroughs regularly. Expect more of this in coming years. Hopefully, it will lead to treatments and cures.
