DNA Grandparentage Test

Fast, Powerful and Proven

The DNA Grandparentage Test is used in situations where the alleged father is not available for testing. Either the grandmother, or the grandfather, or both can take the DNA grandparentage test to investigate the likelihood that they are the true biological grandparents of a grandchild. There is no age limit for DNA testing so the test can be performed on infants as well as adult grandchildren. The full genetic report is included with every test.

Turnaround Time: DNA Grandparentage Testing is completed 1 to 2 business days after the samples arrive at the laboratory. Results are released immediately once the testing is completed.

Description: During a DNA grandparentage test, a buccal swab (mouth swab) specimen is collected from the grandparent(s) and the grandchild. The sample which is collected contains cells, and most of the cells in our body contain a full set of genetic information in the form of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). A person's DNA represents a "genetic blueprint" and like a fingerprint, is unique to each individual. At the laboratory, the DNA is extracted from the cell and specific regions of the DNA are amplified by a process known as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) for careful examination. The DNA pattern of the grandparent is compared to the DNA pattern of the grandchild. A statistical analysis is performed based on the match type typically expected for true grandparent/grandchild pairs, and a "grandparentage index" is obtained.

True biologically related grandparent/grandchild pairs are typically expected to have a grandparentage index value that is greater than 1.0 in their DNA Grandparentage Test Report. Individuals who are not biologically related as grandchild/grandparent are expected to have a grandparentage index value that is less than 1.0.

The greater the grandparentage index value over 1.0, the higher the likelihood that the grandparent/grandchild pair are related. Likewise, the lower the grandparentage value is below 1.0, the lesser the likelihood that the two individuals are related.

Who should consider the Private Test option? The private home test kit option is suitable for individuals who wish to perform the test for personal knowledge only and not for court use. If a private test is ordered, a buccal swab (mouth) swab DNA kit is sent directly to the parties involved in the test for sample collection. The sample collection process is quick, easy and discreet and takes just minutes to complete. Once the laboratory receives the samples, testing is completed within 1 to 2 business days.

Can the kit be shipped to more than one address if the parties live in different cities? If the parties to be tested live at different addresses, we can split the kit and send the kit to each address separately. Since the kits are individually barcode labeled, they will be tested together once the samples arrive back at the laboratory. To order a split kit, simply state "please split this kit" in the comments box of the online order form. Please also indicate the name and address to send each component. For example, please state "send the Alleged Grandmother's portion to... (specify name and address)" and "send the Grandchild's portion to... (specify name and address)". Alternatively, you can choose to have the entire kit shipped to you and you can split the kit yourself and send the components to the other parties in the test.

Who should consider the Legal Test option? The legal DNA test is intended for court use. If the legal testing option is chosen, an appointment will be scheduled for the parties involved for sample collection at a designated Genetrack chain-of-custody sample collection facility. Genetrack has sample collection facilities in most major cities in Canada.

What if the parties to be tested live in different cities or do not wish to attend the same appointment? If the parties involved live in different cities, separate appointments can be arranged for each individual in their respective location. The appointment date is arranged for clients by our Booking Department and can usually be arranged very quickly.

Is the Private Home DNA Test as accurate as the Legal Test? The Private and Legal test options are equally accurate and will produce the same results. The only difference between the private test and the legal test is whether the sample collection is witnessed.

Can the results from the Home DNA Test be used in court? There is no difference in the accuracy between the private knowledge test and the legal test. However, for results to be admissible in court, proper steps must be taken during sample collection to ensure witnessing and verification, a process called "chain of custody". The "court admissible" version of the home kit contains all documents required for third party witnessing and the results can be used in court. If you plan on using the results in court, you should either choose the court admissible home kit, or the legal test (attend appointment for sample collection).

How long does the Grandparentage Test take? Results are available in 1 to 2 business days once our laboratory receives the samples from all parties involved in the test.

Scheduling: DNA grandparentage testing can be arranged online, by phone or by fax. Questions can be directed to the laboratory by email at info@genetrackus.com or by phone at 1-888-802-0703. Our DNA advisors will be able to answer any questions you may have or to help you to schedule an appointment for testing.