Genetic Tests - Comprehensive Information on Genetic Tests, Indirect Genetic Testing and Types of Genetic Tests
Genetic Tests
It is important to keep healthy especially now when most diseases have a genetic connotation. If you have someone in your family has a disease that is genetic in nature, it is best if you can get yourself checked.
To check whether a person has some genetic disease or is likely to be affected by one, genetic tests are used. These genetic tests utilize a variety of techniques to identify if there is any genetic anomaly and mutation.
With these laboratory techniques, genes and their markers are examined. When the genes are analysed, diseases like cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia can be diagnosed. There is an indirect testing, also known as linkage analysis used in many cases.
This is used when the problematic gene cannot be identified or located. However, these genes can be located near a particular chromosome or located in a specific region around the periphery of the chromosome.
Indirect Genetic Testing
In indirect testing, the DNA strains of the affected relative are also used to make a comparison. Though the DNA of each person is unique, the genetic anomalies appear similar and therefore an identification can be made. Due to the uniqueness of the DNA, genetic testing is often used to make individual identification. This particular method is especially useful in forensic criminology where the genetic testing lab is extensively used for solving serious crimes.
Types of Genetic Tests
There are several different genetic tests. Here are some of them:
• Carrier Identification: this is especially beneficial for those families where there is a history of recessive genetic disorders. People, who have genetic disorders and are trying to have babies, also often get themselves tested.
• Prenatal Diagnosis: this is a test in which the fetus is tested for genes that may be associated with physical or mental retardation. This technique is most commonly used to diagnose ‘Down Syndrome’.
• Newborn Screening: after the baby is born, this test is conducted so that genetic diseases of a newborn can be identified and treatment started immediately. The tests may also indicate the risk of developing a genetic disease in the future so that preventive steps can be taken.
Genetic Testing Procedure
After having observed the success enjoyed by genetic testing processes certain companies have formulated home brewed genetic testing, in which genetic testing can be done at home. To test the veracity of a person’s biology, genetic testing is used. However, this is a complex procedure and precision is very important. Doing such complex testing at home may not produce accurate results.
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