What Is a DNA Test?
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a map of your body's chemical makeup. DNA tests are administered to access a person's identity by forensic scientists. The test is easily taken in moments, but the results take longer to recover.
Number Sequences
A person's DNA makeup is essentially broken down into a set of numbers. These numbers are encrypted into a specific DNA identification code for each individual.
Similar DNA Codes
The majority of humans have nearly the exact same DNA codes. The subtle differences that lay within are enough to single out every person on Earth.
VNTR
The differences are what are referred to as variable number tandem repeats. The VNTR is how scientists can differentiate between DNA codes from person to person.
Collecting DNA
Typically received from a swab rubbed in a person's mouth, DNA can be obtained a number of ways for testing. Blood, semen and any other fluid or tissue from a person is more than enough to get information.
Considerations
Not a perfect science, DNA evidence is not enough to supply identity up to 100 percent. Factors such as DNA degrading and insufficient sampling require other outside sources for complete verification.
DNA Databases
Governments and private firms around the world have DNA databases with millions of codes cataloged inside. Scientists access these databases to compare their samples against these codes.
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