Genealogy and DNA genealogy - the most important in a nutshell

9 out of 10 genealogists choose iGENEA for genetic ancestry research

Genealogy, a journey into the past that connects us to the roots of our family tree, has seen a significant boost in recent years through DNA genealogy. Decoding our genetic blueprints allows us to look far beyond traditional research methods and make direct connections to our ancestors.

DNA genealogy is based on the analysis of specific sections of DNA that are passed down from generation to generation. These sections can tell us which parts of the world our ancestors came from, and connect us to distant relatives we may never have heard of.

There are three main types of DNA tests used in genealogical research: Autosomal DNA tests, mitochondrial DNA tests (mtDNA), and Y-chromosome tests. The autosomal test analyzes chromosomes that come from both parents and can trace both paternal and maternal lines. This test is especially useful for finding relatives as far back as five or six generations.

The mtDNA, on the other hand, traces the maternal line and is only passed from mother to child. Because this DNA undergoes little change over time, it can look deep into the past and provide information about maternal ancestry. The Y-chromosome test follows the paternal line and is only applicable to males, as only they possess the Y-chromosome. It can provide clues to the origin of the family name and the movements of the male ancestors.

One of the most fascinating aspects of DNA genealogy is the discovery of migration patterns. By analyzing DNA, researchers can trace the paths our ancestors took across continents. This offers insights not only into individual family history, but also into the collective history of humankind.

Another significant benefit is the ability to uncover lost or unknown relationships. Many people have found distant relatives they did not know existed through DNA testing. This can be especially valuable for adoptees or people searching for their biological family.

Even for experienced genealogists, DNA genealogy testing can be helpful. Church records and other documents needed for genealogical research were not always issued error-free and complete. Wars, riots or natural disasters have in countless cases led to the fact that such records no longer exist at all. In earlier times, such documents were not created and it has been impossible to trace kinship relationships back to that time. Of course, there are also concerns associated with DNA genealogy. Data protection and privacy issues are particularly relevant in this area. iGENEA has therefore taken stringent measures to ensure the integrity and security of the samples we collect. A key step in this process is the strict separation of saliva samples and personal data. When a sample reaches our laboratory, it is already pseudonymized, meaning it is represented by a unique code that has no direct reference to the customer's personal data. This ensures that the laboratory professionals tasked with analyzing the samples do not have access to the individual's identity at any time. This strict separation of genetic and personal data is a cornerstone of our privacy policy. It allows us to provide valuable genetic information without compromising the confidentiality and security of our customers. Customers can rest assured that their data is in safe hands with us and will be handled with the highest level of integrity and professionalism.

DNA genealogy has the potential to profoundly change the understanding of one's ancestry. It offers a unique perspective on the history of our ancestors and allows us to experience our connection to the past in a way that was not possible through traditional methods of genealogy. It is a powerful tool that helps us put together the puzzle pieces of our ancestry and recognize our place in the grand story of humanity.

This is how the DNA origin analysis works

A Mucus Sample suffices to get a sample of your DNA. Taking the sample is simple and painless and can be done at home. Send the samples with the envelop included in the sampling kit.