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Learning Centre - DNA Testing Articles for members of the public

Articles about DNA Testing

The History of DNA Discovery

Learn about the history of DNA discovery and DNA science.

How much is a DNA test?

How much does a DNA test cost? Find all the information you need here.

DNA testing after fertility treatments

With increasing numbers of babies being born as a result of fertility treatment, DNA testing can give you peace of mind over the biological identity of your child.

DNA Science

Learn about the scientific techniques we use at AlphaBiolabs

Types of DNA Testing

Learn about the different types of DNA testing available at AlphaBiolabs

Why do we test the mother?

Why do we request the mother’s DNA sample for a paternity test?

How do I change a father’s name on a birth certificate?

Do you need to change a name on a birth certificate? Learn more here.

DNA Testing FAQs

Frequently asked questions and answers about our DNA tests

Should I take a DNA Test?

Have you thought about the implications of taking a DNA test? Learn more here.

Zygosity Twin Testing Explained

Looking for information about our DNA Zygosity Twin Testing? Get your answers here.

Why is consent needed?

Why is consent needed from all parties when DNA testing?

How much DNA do we share?

Find out how much DNA we share with the animal world

What does parental responsibility for DNA testing mean?

What is parental responsibility? Learn more here.

The DNA Testing Process Explained

Learn about our DNA testing process here.

Peace of mind vs. legal DNA testing

What is the difference between a peace of mind and a legal DNA test? Find out here

Additional DNA reporting

AlphaBiolabs offers its customers the option to include additional reports with every case.

All about toothbrush DNA testing

Toothbrush DNA testing is the latest addition to AlphaBiolabs DNA relationship testing services.

Baby gender test vs. ultrasound

Which is more reliable; a baby gender DNA test or an ultrasound?

Useful Organisations

Here we have complied a select list of useful third party organisations.

Sample Collection

AlphaBiolabs has been instructed to obtain a sample from you for either DNA, drug and/or alcohol testing. This info sheet will guide you through the process.

Problems opening your test report

Having difficulties opening your test report? Read this guide.

Fun facts about twins

Here are some fun facts about twins.

Can I get British citizenship through my child?

We look at what British citizenship is, who can apply, whether you can gain British citizenship via your children, and how DNA tests can be used as supporting evidence.

Identical vs fraternal twins

What’s the difference between identical and non-identical (fraternal) twins? How can DNA testing help families find out whether twins are identical or non-identical?

How accurate is a blood test for gender?

In this article, we discuss baby gender testing, how the test works, and the accuracy of a baby gender test.

How much DNA do brothers and sisters share?

In this article, we discuss how brothers and sisters share DNA, and what can be learnt from a sibling DNA test.

Can a DNA test prove half-siblings?

In this article, we discuss DNA testing for siblings, and whether a DNA test can prove half-siblings.

Do twins run in families?

We discuss whether twins run in families, and the factors that can increase your chances of conceiving twins.

NIPT test – What you need to know about Non‑Invasive Prenatal Testing

An NIPT is a genetic test used to screen for genetic abnormalities during pregnancy. Find out more in our expert article.

What is Down’s syndrome?

In this article we look at what Down’s syndrome is, the causes and characteristics of Down’s syndrome, and how you can test for Down’s syndrome before birth.

What is Edward’s syndrome?

In this article we look at what Edward’s syndrome is, the causes and characteristics of Edward’s syndrome, and how you can test for Edward’s syndrome before birth.

How much is a NIPT test?

How much does a Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) cost?

How to choose a DNA testing company

In this article, we discuss the key factors to consider when choosing a DNA testing company.

How long do people with Down’s syndrome live?

What is the life expectancy for a person with Down’s syndrome?

Health issues associated with Down’s syndrome

There are several medical conditions that are more common in people with Down’s syndrome. Read on to find out more.

What is Mosaic Down’s syndrome?

Mosaicism accounts for around 2% of people with Down’s syndrome. Read on to find out more.

Is Down’s Syndrome a Learning Disability?

Learn about the links between Down’s syndrome and learning disability.

Down’s Syndrome and Autism (ASM)

Learn about the similarities and differences between Down’s syndrome and autism

Which parent determines the sex of a baby?

Which parent determines the sex of a baby, and how can you find out the baby’s sex before birth?

Are identical twins always the same sex?

In this article, we explore the science behind identical twin sex determination and how twin DNA testing can help families find out whether twins are identical or non-identical.