Grandparentage DNA tests

DNA paternity testing is a scientific process that can positively identify relationships between people from their DNA. Most commonly it is used to establish if a man is the true biological father of a child. DNA paternity testing is also often referred to simply as a DNA test, a paternity test or DNA testing.

Grandparentage dna testing

DNA testing can be used to examine the relationship between a child and a possible grandparent, although the inclusion of other close relatives in the test is always recommended. A DNA profile will be produced for each person, the profiles will be compared, and a statistical analysis of the most likely relationship will be reported.

Paternity testing using paternal grandparents (because the alleged father is unavailable) should ideally include samples from the child’s mother as well as from both paternal grandparents. This will provide the same degree of certainty as if a sample from the alleged father had been tested.

If the mother and only one of the paternal grandparents are available, the test will provide a strong indication of whether the two individuals are related but it cannot provide a conclusive result. The statistical analysis will determine the most likely relationship given the DNA results.

It is possible to just compare the DNA profile of a child and an alleged grandparent, although it is preferential for the mother to be tested. This can provide an indication of a relationship but, because of the patterns of DNA inheritance, it will not always reveal the true nature of the relationship. Such an analysis can only report the most likely relationship given the DNA evidence.

Summary – the best people to test

	Mother	Child	Paternal Grandparent 1	Paternal GrandParent 2
First choice:	√	√	√	√
Second Choice	√	√	√
OR		√	√	√
Third choice:		√	√

Please note that if maternity is being investigated the maternal grandparents should be tested

For further information on the work of the Human Genetics Commission and the Human Tissue Act visit the HGC’s website www.hgc.gov.uk.

What is DNA and why do we test it?

What is DNA paternity testing?

What does DNA paternity testing involve?

Accreditation of testing laboratories

Selecting a testing service - making an informed choice

The Human Tissue Act

DNA test results and reports

Assessing DNA reports

How much does it cost?

DNA testing: Frequently asked questions

Advice and support groups

Get a quote for DNA testing/paternity test

If you would like a quote for DNA testing/a paternity test, or further information on DNA tests, from up to three providers of DNA paternity testing services in the UK

Complete the DNA testing enquiry form....