Our DNA is known as the molecule of life. He carries our genetic information is passed from one generation to another and can tell us a lot about where we come from and who we are related. While standard methods of DNA tests usually include a mouth swab or saliva sample, there are many different types of tests - some of which are only available for men. To help you get a better understanding of the various tests and why only men can take some of them, we detailed the three types of DNA tests offered through genealogical services and that each test can reveal about your family heritage.
tests YDNA
can take the test? tests YDNA watching the Y chromosome, and as such, can not be supplemented by biological men. Here is some recycling of biology to explain why: you inherit 23 pairs of chromosomes from your mother and father and the 23 pair your sex chromosome, which determines whether you are born male or female. Men and women inherit an X chromosome from their mother and either an X or Y chromosome from their father. A combination of XX is a female and XY combination indicates a male. Because male is the only kind that has a Y chromosome, only males can take this kind of DNA test.
What test Y-DNA reveal? It says more about your paternal line and traces of your last name. However, if a woman was interested in taking this test, it could do so by proxy, in itself, have a close male relative (eg, brother or father) of the same genetic line to the test and share their results with her.
mtDNA testing
can pass the test trials? Mitochondrial DNA (also known as mtDNA tests) only look at the direct maternal line, but can be taken by men and women, as part of the mitochondrial DNA of a person is passed from a mother his children, regardless of gender. While the two children of male and female inherit mtDNA from their mother, females can pass on to the next generation.
What is the mtDNA test reveal? mtDNA tests track of your direct maternal line, and since women have traditionally taken their name from the husband when married, this test is a little more difficult to follow since the name changes with each generation (as opposed to a test Y-DNA following the surname passed on the father's side).
autosomal testing
can take the test? autosomal tests can also be taken by men and women because the autosomal DNA from a non-sex chromosome.
What the autosomal test reveal? This type of test pairs with people who have identical segments of DNA, indicating that they can share a recent ancestor with you. It allows you to draw lines as paternal and the maternal side of your family and can usually return about five generations. Because of this, autosomal tests are most useful in tracing generations as a Y-DNA test traces of your paternal line and mtDNA trace your maternal lineage.
Visit our genealogy blog to see what happens when you order one of these ineligible DNA testing. And if you're interested in starting a research project of the family, read our reviews of the top genealogy services.