DNA Paternity Testing

What is "proof of paternity?"

Proof of paternity means testing a man to prove that he is the father of a child. The word paternity means origin or descent from a father.

What is paternity testing?

Paternity testing is a procedure that involves collecting and examining the DNA of a small sample of bodily fluid or tissue from a child and the alleged father. DNA is the genetic coding or unique genetic "fingerprint" that is present in every cell of a human's body. When a baby is conceived, a mother's unique genetic coding (her 23 chromosomes) combines with the father's unique genetic coding (his 23 chromosomes) to create a unique baby whose genetic coding (46 chromosomes) is a shared mix of only its mother's and father's DNA. By collecting and examining a small sample of DNA from the baby and the alleged father, a paternity test can confirm or disprove that the alleged father is indeed the biologic father of the baby (Note: To provide a complete DNA picture, typically, a mother's DNA is also collected and tested although this is not absolutely essential for confirming or disproving the identity of the father. To determine if a man is the biological father, only DNA samples from the man and baby are needed).

What bodily fluids and tissues can be sampled?

Since every person's DNA is present in every cell of the body, a small sample for testing can be obtained from any bodily source, including blood, semen, body tissue, hair, bone, saliva, and even cells taken from the inside of the cheek of the mouth (also called buccal cells). DNA paternity testing using buccal cells is a common testing source since obtaining a sample from the mouth is fast, simple, and painless.

How is the cheek cell test conducted?

Cells are collected by gently rubbing a cotton swab