Genetics, readable and clear

A DNA marker is a short, precisely defined region of the genome that differs between people in the number of repeats of a particular sequence. The more independent markers a laboratory compares, the greater the certainty of the result. In paternity testing we therefore evaluate dozens of markers, chosen to be as variable as possible in the Czech and European populations. A match across all the markers examined leads to a probability of paternity exceeding 99.9999 %.

The result of a paternity test never states 100 % for a confirmation — statistically, a theoretical match with another, unrelated man cannot be entirely ruled out. A value of 99.9999 % means that the probability of a random man having the same combination of markers is vanishingly small. Exclusion of paternity, by contrast, is absolute: a mismatch in a few markers is enough for paternity to be excluded with 100 % certainty.

Blood is not needed for a DNA analysis. The cells lining the inside of the cheek contain exactly the same genetic information as any other cell in the body. Collection by buccal swab is painless, quick and something you can manage at home. The key is to let the sample dry and not to touch the collection tip, so that it is not contaminated with someone else's DNA.

Genetic predispositions are not destiny. Genes can hint at what a person has an innate leaning towards — whether sporting aptitude, metabolism or musical talent — but the outcome is always shaped by environment, upbringing and one's own effort as well. Genetic tests such as Genoskop® are therefore not there to “programme” a child, but to help you understand their strengths better.

A good many myths circulate about genetics. A DNA test does not reveal “everything” about your health or your future — it analyses specific, predefined regions. An origin test will not tell you your exact nationality, but your genetic line and your ancestors' migration routes. And a home test for personal purposes cannot be used in court, because it does not include verification of the identity of the people tested.

Genomac runs the only Czech National Genographic Database. With every Genograf® test you gain the option of entering it free of charge and comparing your genetic line with others. You can thus find distant relatives with whom you share a common ancestor — sometimes hundreds of years back.