Different types of ancestry DNA tests

There are three main types of ancestry DNA tests – autosomal, Y-DNA and mtDNA – each analysing a different part of your DNA, to provide you with unique information about your family history.

Here, we explore the different types of ancestry DNA tests in more detail.

What is an ancestry DNA test?

An ancestry DNA test can help shed light on the history of your ancestors, allowing you to discover where your ancestors may have originated from, and the journey they may have taken thousands of years ago.

DNA testing for ancestry looks for variants in your DNA. These variants can be linked with different populations , giving you a greater understanding of your ethnic origin, and the geographical distribution of your ancestors.

Learn more: DNA sequencing for genetic ancestry testing

How does an ancestry DNA test work?

DNA ancestry testing works by looking at variants (mutations) in your DNA.

Homo sapiens (modern humans) originated in Africa some 200,000-300,000 years ago. Over time, people began to move within and out of Africa, perhaps to search for more resources or to escape unfavourable climates.

Mutations are changes to the DNA that occur naturally over long periods of time. As people migrated to other parts of Africa or the world, mutations in the DNA were isolated within the population in which the mutation occurred.

As people in new populations had children, new variants in the DNA were passed from one generation to the next. Ancestry tests are designed to analyse your DNA to find specific variants associated with different populations, to determine where your ancestors came from.

Learn more: Is an ancestry DNA test accurate?

What are the different types of ancestry DNA tests?

There are three main types of ancestry DNA tests, each analysing a different part of your DNA. Each test provides unique information about your family history, and at AlphaBiolabs, we offer all three:

Autosomal DNA testing

Looks at DNA inherited from the autosomal chromosomes, rather than the sex chromosomes (X and Y). 

This type of testing is ideal for discovering your genetic roots across multiple generations, showing you which parts of the world your ancestors came from and what percentage of your DNA is linked to specific population groups (e.g. Europe, Middle East etc).

AlphaBiolabs’ DNA Origins Ancestry test uses autosomal DNA analysis to provide an in-depth view of your ancestral heritage, with easy-to-understand results delivered securely.

Y-DNA testing

Y-DNA testing examines the Y chromosome, which is passed down from father to son through the male line. This type of test can only be taken by biological males, as biological females do not carry a Y chromosome.

The test can be used to trace your direct paternal line, helping you learn more about your father’s ancestral roots and the geographical origins of your paternal ancestors.

Our Paternal Lineage Ancestry test uses Y-DNA to uncover your paternal heritage – ideal if you want to focus specifically on your father’s side of the family.

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) testing

Mitochondrial DNA is passed from mother to child, meaning both males and females can take this test. It traces your maternal line, which runs back from your mother to your grandmother, great-grandmother, and so on.

The test can help you learn more about the ancestral origins of your maternal line, including ancient migration patterns and regional genetic links.

Our Maternal Lineage Ancestry test allows you to uncover your mother’s ancestry and where her family originally came from.

Learn more: How far back do ancestry DNA tests go?

What type of ancestry DNA test should I take?

The type of ancestry test you choose depends on what you want to learn:

• Looking for a general overview of your ancestry?
  An autosomal DNA test (like our DNA Origins Ancestry test) is the best option. It analyses your DNA from both sides of the family, giving you a balanced picture of your genetic background.

• Want to explore your father’s side of the family?
  If you’re biologically male and want to trace your paternal lineage, a Paternal Lineage Ancestry test can help.

  If you’re a biological female and want to learn more about the paternal lineage of your family, you can ask a close male relative (e.g. father, brother, father’s brother etc.) if they would like to take the test.

• Interested in your mother’s ancestral roots?
  The Maternal Lineage Ancestry test is perfect for anyone wanting to explore their maternal line – whether you’re male or female.

Where can I buy an ancestry DNA test?

You can order an ancestry DNA test now, direct from our accredited UK laboratory.

With only a simple cheek (buccal) swab sample required, these tests can give you an insight into the journey your ancestors took thousands of years ago, as well as giving you an idea of where your ancestral line may have originated.

The DNA Origins Ancestry test is suitable for everyone and can determine your biogeographic ancestry.

Our Maternal Lineage Ancestry test is available for both men and women, as each person inherits mitochondrial DNA from their mother.

The Paternal Lineage Ancestry test can only be taken by males, as the test analyses DNA markers on the Y chromosome, which is only found in males. However, if you are a woman who would like to find out more about the paternal lineage of your family, you can ask a close male relative (e.g. father, brother, father’s brother etc) if they would like to take the Paternal Lineage Test. 

For more information, contact our friendly, knowledgeable Customer Services team on 0333 600 1300 or email info@alphabiolabs.com.