What's DNA testing?
- Each cell in your body contains a complete copy of your genetic blueprint in the form of DNA.
- Cheek cells are a convenient and painless way to provide a sample of your DNA.
- After you swab your cheek and send us your samples, a workforce of robots in our laboratory use chemicals, tubes and high-tech machines to separate your DNA from the rest of your cheek cells.
- More robots and computers then take a look at specific locations on your DNA.
- Our system compares two individuals' test results and calculates the degree of similarity between them. This lets us tell you how closely you are related to someone else, and helps connect you to possible relatives.
- This process is different from what you may have seen on TV or heard about DNA and testing in the past. Your test results don't tell you (or us!) anything about your hair color or other personal characteristics.
- Once your results are complete, you'll have access to them online and can start matching with potential genetic cousins.
