DNA Maternal Ancestry$119
DNA Maternal Ancestry
$119
Ever wondered where your maternal ancestors came from? This test can tell you! Mitochondrial DNA is passed from mother to child, providing an ideal way to trace maternal lineages. (Note: Both males and females can take this test.)
Where do your ancestors come from?
The maternal ancestry test can help answer that question! We test your mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) to trace your maternal origins (your mother’s, mother’s, mother’s … origins), so you can find out where your ancestors once lived. In the process, we can help you identify long-lost relatives. This test is especially useful for people who have been adopted and wish to find biological relatives.
- Online Results: Receive confidential results through a secure online portal, ensuring your privacy and peace of mind at every step.
- Painless Sampling: Collect your DNA samples with easy-to-use mouth swabs – no blood or needles required.
How it works
Collect DNA Samples
Your DNA kit includes everything you need to collect easy mouth swabs in the privacy of your home.
Mail samples to the lab
When you're finished collecting your DNA samples, simply mail them to the lab for analysis.
Receive your results
Receive confidential results in your secure online portal within 6-8 weeks after testing begins.
What is mtDNA?
Mitochondrial DNA is the circular DNA found inside the mitochondria. Each cell contains several mitochondria and each mitochondrion contains dozens of copies of the 16,569 base pairs of mtDNA. So, in every cell there can be thousands of copies of mtDNA, which differs from only two copies per cell of the linear and much larger nuclear genome. Each individual inherits mtDNA from only their mother. Hence there is no mixing (recombination) of the mtDNA from generation to generation. As mtDNA essentially remains unchanged through the maternal line, it provides an incredibly useful way to trace maternal ancestry.
What do we test?
Your mtDNA genome contains 16,569 base pairs. That is 16,569 different places that a DNA change can occur! DNA SNP chips (used by many ancestry testing companies) detect less than 20% of all these possible changes. We use Sanger Sequencing, the GOLD standard for DNA sequencing, to identify every single base pair. If you carry a mtDNA genetic variant, our technology will detect it, GUARANTEED.
The mtDNA genome contains three regions: two hypervariable regions (HVR1 and HVR2) and the more conserved coding region. You have the following choices when ordering a maternal ancestry test:
- Sequence just one or both of your hypervariable regions so that you can accurately compare your mtDNA to published data from hundreds of famous historical figures and ethnic groups around the world.
- Upgrade to the full mtDNA genome sequence (HVR1 + HVR2 + coding region) to confirm your ancient maternal history (mtDNA haplogroup and subclade).
Simple sample collection
There are no painful needles or doctor’s appointments required. We provide simple mouth (buccal) swabs to painlessly collect a few cheek cells. Your DNA is inside every one of these cells, and that is all that is required for the analysis.
Who can take this test?
Anybody, male or female, of any age can take this test. Both males and females carry mtDNA, with each gender inheriting it from their mother. This means that although a male has mtDNA and can take this test, he will not pass his mtDNA to his children.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get results?
Once your sample is received by our laboratory, processing usually takes 6-8 weeks. You will receive an email notification when your results are ready, and you can access your detailed report through a secure online portal.
Is my genetic information kept private?
We take data privacy seriously. Your results are confidential and only shared with you. We do not share your results with insurance companies, employers, or any other third parties.
Why DNA Tests Direct?
Accredited Excellence
Our laboratory holds globally recognized accreditations including AABB, CAP, CLIA, SCC, and ISO17025, ensuring accurate results for every test.
Your Privacy, Protected
Your privacy is our top priority. Our secure, accredited laboratory and password-protected online portal guarantee that your results are shared only with you.
Expert Support
Our dedicated customer care team is here to support you through the process, answer your questions, and provide any assistance you need.