Tip of the Month:

DNA Profiling

Deoxyribonucleic acid(DNA) is a specialized molecule that encodes all of the genetic information of an individual. A child receives one half of his or her DNA from each biological parent, forming a pattern, or "profile" that is unique from individual to individual, with the exception of identical twins. By comparing the DNA characteristics of the mother and child it is possible to identify the characteristics that the child inherited from the biological mother. Thus, any remaining DNA must have come from the biological father. If the DNA profile from the tested man is found to contain these obligatory paternal characteristics, then a statistical analysis can be performed to determine the probability of paternity.

At Fairfax Identity Laboratories, a tested man will either be excluded by 2 or more genetic locations or included with a probability of paternity greater than 99.0%. for PCR testing and greater than 99.9% for RFLP testing.

Specimen Requirements

Specimens must be collected under strict chain of custody protocol. Please call the laboratory for instructions.

Amniotic Fluid
At least 20 ml unspun amniotic fluid in red top centrifuge tube(s) OR 2 T25 flasks of cultured amniocytes, 100% confluent.

Blood
Infant: 0.5ml venous or cord blood in EDTA(lavender top) tube. Child(over 6 months):0.5-3 ml peripheral blood in EDTA(lavender top) tube Adult: 0.5ml-3ml peripheral blood in EDTA(lavender top) tube.

Buccal Swabs
2-4 swabs

CVS
10 mg cleaned villi in sterile medium in sterile centrifuge tube OR 2 T25 flasks of cultured cells, 100% confluent.

Products of Conception, Tissue
10mg tissue in sterile medium. Seal tightly.

Testing Method
Multiple single-locus DNA analysis.

Turnaround Time
An analysis cannot be made until all samples involved in the case have been processed in the laboratory. Specimens are processed upon receipt at our facilities, and results are routinely available in about 9-10 business days for normal Paternity. Call 1-800-482-3025 for other turnaround times.