ancestry (ancient clans and tribes), and for establishing or eliminating possible familial relationships (genealogical). To understand and define the fanning out (migration) patterns of our ancestors, a massive database is required to determine where and when these ancestors lived. “DNA is nature’s biological road map to understand our deep past.” (Darvin L. Martin, as quoted by Dowell, 2011) Without a massive database, these test results would be meaningless, but when matched with results of voluminous others, useful knowledge about family and history emerges. Because genetics is a relatively, and dynamic new field, when new scientific research comes to light, more credibility is established. Mitochondrial DNA is more stable than Y-chromosome
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Since 2009, the accuracy of mitochondrial testing changed radically with the availability of the entire mitochondrial genome and some 16,569 values. This allowed detection of more mutations, since previously, many had been outside of the area being studied. Haplogroups, or ancient tribes can now be divided into smaller and more useful subgroups relating to each individual. Unfortunately, it requires an even more enormous database to find meaningful matches. The power of DNA research can only be maximized by including multiple family members for testing. DNA information, alone, is more useful if combined with traditional genealogical research work by triangulating DNA results of living relatives. By adjusting the probability (averages) in a family timeline, based on the traditional work, makes determining common ancestry more likely. In a concurrent ‘McDowell surname’ project, Philip Dowell and his family presumed the Mc had been dropped at some point in time. After DNA results showed no Dowell DNA has matched up to any McDowell DNA, the family was able to put the McDowell association genetically to rest. By combining DNA results with other information, chances are improved to arriving at better genealogical …show more content…
This technology, which is ever-evolving, needs guidelines in developing ethically sound, scientific based, and socially responsible testing. The influential commercial enterprise of DTC genetic testing, obviously, fulfills a need for consumers and the public alike, but it must better communicate the capabilities and limitations of available testing. Testing results may continue creating labels for individuals, but with proper emotional preparation, individuals will be successful and move forward with confidence. If the facts about genetic testing are understood and the consumers remain informed, cautious and skeptical, there is a great deal to be gained because each and every one has a story to tell, and it is right inside of
Since 2009, the accuracy of mitochondrial testing changed radically with the availability of the entire mitochondrial genome and some 16,569 values. This allowed detection of more mutations, since previously, many had been outside of the area being studied. Haplogroups, or ancient tribes can now be divided into smaller and more useful subgroups relating to each individual. Unfortunately, it requires an even more enormous database to find meaningful matches. The power of DNA research can only be maximized by including multiple family members for testing. DNA information, alone, is more useful if combined with traditional genealogical research work by triangulating DNA results of living relatives. By adjusting the probability (averages) in a family timeline, based on the traditional work, makes determining common ancestry more likely. In a concurrent ‘McDowell surname’ project, Philip Dowell and his family presumed the Mc had been dropped at some point in time. After DNA results showed no Dowell DNA has matched up to any McDowell DNA, the family was able to put the McDowell association genetically to rest. By combining DNA results with other information, chances are improved to arriving at better genealogical …show more content…
This technology, which is ever-evolving, needs guidelines in developing ethically sound, scientific based, and socially responsible testing. The influential commercial enterprise of DTC genetic testing, obviously, fulfills a need for consumers and the public alike, but it must better communicate the capabilities and limitations of available testing. Testing results may continue creating labels for individuals, but with proper emotional preparation, individuals will be successful and move forward with confidence. If the facts about genetic testing are understood and the consumers remain informed, cautious and skeptical, there is a great deal to be gained because each and every one has a story to tell, and it is right inside of