Paternity test analysis of mono- or dizygosity of twins, e.g. in con- or discordant diseases
General determination of blood relationships
Clonality analysis (in patients with bone marrow transplants)
Detection of biologic material, especially in urine ("doping" screening; patients under detoxification)
Trace analysis
Paternity Testing / Familial Relationship Testing
Zygosity Testing (Multiple Births) / Identitification Testing / Forensics
Clinical Features
In all cases in which the identity of specific persons needs to be determined or in which biologic material needs to be assigned to individuals, molecular genetic testing is used. The latter is based on the concept that the genome of each individual (except for monozygotic twins) is polymorphic and unique. The presence of inheritable polymorphisms enables us to determine blood relationships, in particular to test for paternity. Since November 2001, exclusively DNA-based paternity tests are permitted, as stated in the new guidelines for the reimbursement of certificates of descent of the German Medical Association (Bundesärztekammer). Paternity is usually confirmed with a high probability (> 99,99% in routine cases; termed "paternity practically proven") or excluded with certainty (100%).
Diagnostic
Indication
Method
Non-coding DNA regions are rich in short repetitive DNA sequences (2-5 base pairs). These repetitive sequences have a unique localization in humans. However, the number of repeats varies between individuals. This is known as microsatellite DNA (STR, short tandem repeats). By means of molecular genetic testing, the exact number of repeats which serve as individual markers can be determined at each locus. Analysis of many different STR systems (> 10) on different chromosomes results in an individually unique pattern of microsatellite loci (except for monozygotic twins), which is also known as that person's genetic fingerprint. Each case is evaluated using statistical methods.
Sample Requirement
Important note: 2 samples from each person are required:
- 1 ml of EDTA blood
- Smear of buccal mucosa
- Urine
- Special samples upon agreement only!
Special note:
As with all genetic testing, we require a declaration of consent prior to testing; the testing of children requires parental or legal custodial consent.
In special cases, we ask you to contact us prior to sending material (e.g., relationship between the possible fathers; analysis of kinship other than in parents and their children, e.g., siblings, grandparents / grandchildren, etc.).
Duration
Approx. 1 week