Autosomal DNA Test Specs

3 types of DNA hold clues to your family connections

Most of the cells in our body (somatic cells) contain 23 pairs of chromosomes consisting of 22 pairs of autosomal chromosomes and 1 pair of sex chromosomes (the X and Y chromosomes). One copy of each pair of autosomal DNA is inherited from our biological mother and the other copy is from our biological father.

Autosomal DNA testing, also known as "DNA Fingerprinting", usually refers to the testing of STR (short tandem repeat) markers found in autosomal DNA. STRs are short fragments of DNA, usually 2 to 6 base pairs in length which are repeated over and over again in a defined location of the autosomal DNA. The length of the repeats can vary from person to person, and is inherited within the autosomal chromosome.

During an autosomal DNA test, a panel of known STR marker locations (locus, plural loci) are tested to examine the number of repeats "alleles" at each locus. Since each individual has two copies of each autosomal chromosome, each locus will show two possible "alleles". When a panel of different autosomal STR markers are examined, the results are known as a "DNA Profile" or "DNA Fingerprint".

Since the markers in your autosomal DNA are passed down to you directly from your biological mother and father, autosomal STR markers will allow you to search for immediate family members, such as your father, mother, son, daughter, full siblings, half siblings, aunts/uncles, grandmother/grandfather, niece/nephew.

1. Get your Autosomal DNA STR marker certificate. If you have not tested yet, order your test at Genetrack.
2. Enter your Autosomal DNA STR data into DNA Reunion (/).
3. Create your search list.
4. You will be instantly notified when a potential match joins the registry.

As the database grows, you will find new matches. You can search at any time and as many times as you wish.

An advanced assay for use in family identification and relationship testing. 16 STR loci are tested in Panel 1, including the thirteen core CODIS STR, two additional autosomal STR loci and amelogenin for gender determination. 4 additional STR loci are tested in Panel 2 to increase the discrimination power of the test. The results generated are ready for uploading to www.dnareunion.org, enabling the exchange and comparison of DNA profiles electronically.

The autosomal DNA test is performed using the Identifiler and FFFL Systems from Applied Biosystems. Identifiler has been validated and certified to TWGDAM guidelines for forensic and identity casework and is recognized worldwide for database studies.

Compare these three technologies »

DNA Reunion is a free international DNA registry for people from around the world to find family members and family connections using DNA.

If you have not tested yet, order your test at Genetrack.