Maternal Ancestry Test (mtDNA)
$119
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.
- Trace Your Mother's Lineage: Journey back in time to discover the ancient origins of your maternal ancestors, from your mother to her mother and beyond.
- The Power of mtDNA: This test analyzes your mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), a unique piece of genetic code passed directly from mother to child.
- For Men and Women: Because everyone inherits mtDNA from their mother, both males and females can take this test to uncover their maternal heritage.
How it Works
Order your DNA Kit
Place your order online, and we’ll send you a DNA test kit with everything you need to collect your samples.
Collect DNA Samples
Follow the detailed, step-by-step instructions to collect DNA samples using the provided mouth swabs.
Lab Analysis
Use the provided return envelope to mail your DNA samples to our laboratory for analysis.
Receive Results
Download your results from your secure online account as soon as they’re ready.
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).
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
What does the Maternal Ancestry Test reveal?
Have you ever wondered where your mother’s ancestors came from? This test analyzes your mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) to trace your maternal lineage back through generations. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the ancient origins of your mother’s side of the family.
Who can take the Maternal Ancestry Test?
Because mitochondrial DNA is passed down from a mother to all of her children, both males and females can take this test to trace their maternal heritage2. It provides a direct link to your mother’s ancestral line.
How do I collect a sample for the test?
The sample collection process is simple and can be done from the comfort of your own home. Your kit will include a painless mouth swab to collect a sample of cheek cells.
What will the results of the test show me?
Your results will include your mtDNA haplogroup, which represents a specific branch of the human family tree. This will connect you to an ancient ancestral clan and show you the geographic regions where your maternal ancestors originated.
How is this different from a Y-DNA test?
This test specifically follows the maternal line (mother, mother’s mother, etc.) using mtDNA. A Y-DNA test, on the other hand, follows the paternal line (father, father’s father, etc.) using the Y-chromosome and can only be taken by males.
What is mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)?
Mitochondrial DNA is a special type of DNA that is passed from a mother to her children with very few changes over generations3. This stability makes it an ideal tool for scientists to trace a direct maternal line far back into history.
Is your testing facility reputable and accredited?
How will I receive my results?
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 the testing process confidential?
Yes, your confidentiality is guaranteed. From the discreet packaging of the test kit to the secure delivery of your results, we ensure your privacy is protected every step of the way.
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