DNA testing (paternity test), which confirms whether or not a person is a biological child, is a test used to confirm the genetic link between parents and their children. This test can identify the parent-child relationship with a very high degree of accuracy, and generally has a 99.99% or higher probability of confirming that the child is a biological child. Paternity tests may be performed for legal or personal reasons, and the results are used to prove or deny a parent-child relationship.
1. Paternity test method
DNA testing confirms the parent-child relationship by comparing the DNA of the parent and the child. The specific process is as follows
(1) Sample collection
Usually, an oral mucosal sample is used to collect cells from the oral cavity (inside the cheek) with a cotton swab.This is simple, painless, and can be done at home.Other body tissues, such as blood or hair, can also be used as samples.
(2) DNA extraction and analysis
DNA is extracted from the collected cells and the genes between parents and offspring are compared.Genetic matches between parents and offspring are confirmed by analyzing the repeated portions of genes, mainly called STR (Short Tandem Repeat) markers.
(3) Confirmation of genetic match
It examines the degree to which the genetic information of the parents and the child match. When there is a biological parent-child relationship, the child inherits half of the genes from each of the parents, so there is some degree of genetic matching.
- If the child is a biological child: There is a 99.99% or greater probability that a parent-child relationship will be recognized.
- If the child is not the biological child: The test results provide almost complete proof that there is no parent-child relationship.
2. Accuracy of DNA analysis
DNA testing of parent-child relationships is extremely accurate, usually confirming a biological child with a probability of 99.99% or better. Negative results (i.e., not the biological child) are also confirmed with greater than 99% accuracy.
3. Uses of paternity test
Paternity appraisals are performed in a variety of situations.
- Legal use: When it is necessary to prove the parent-child relationship in legal situations, such as inheritance issues, custody disputes, and confirmation in family registers.
- Personal Use: This is done for personal reasons, such as when there is doubt in the family as to whether or not a child is a biological child.
4. Cost of tests
The cost of a paternity test varies depending on the testing organization and the purpose of the test, but generally ranges from 30,000 yen to 100,000 yen. If legal proof is required, additional fees may be charged for the procedure and issuance of the certificate.
5. legal DNA testing
An appraisal to legally prove parent-child relationship requires an appraisal by a reputable institution. Legally recognized testing procedures and certification are required for submission through a court or attorney. This involves ensuring that the handling of test samples is properly controlled and justified for use as evidence.
6. Time to get results
The time required to obtain DNA test results is usually one to two weeks.However, it depends on the laboratory and the procedure. If you need the results as soon as possible, some services can provide results in a shorter period of time by paying an additional fee.
Summary
DNA testing of parent-child relationships can be used to confirm whether a child is a biological child with a very high degree of accuracy and can be used for legal proof.The test is performed with a simple sample collection and results are usually available within one to two weeks.Appraisals are performed in legal situations and for personal reasons, and are trusted as a reliable means of determining when there is doubt about the parent-child relationship.
Supervisor of the article
Dr. Hiroshi Oka
Graduated from Keio University, Faculty of Medicine
Doctor of Medicine
Medical Doctor
