The DNA Sibling Test is used in situations where the alleged parent(s) are not available for testing. The DNA Sibling Test provides the likelihood that alleged siblings are full siblings, half siblings, or not related at all. Whenever the parent(s) in question are available for testing, either the DNA Paternity or Maternity Test is recommended over the DNA Sibling Test. However, in situations where the alleged parents are missing or deceased, then the DNA Sibling Test is the next best option for investigating the relationship of potential siblings.

• Quick and painless buccal (mouth) swab sample collection
• Final report available 1-3 business days after the laboratory receives the samples
• Discreet online results option available
• No age limit. Can be performed on individuals of any age, including newborns and adults
• All tests are automatically run twice to ensure 100% accuracy
• Conducted using a premium 16 to 27 genetic marker system
• State-of-the-art accredited testing laboratory utilizing advanced robotics and analyzers
• 100% private and confidential
• Check the progress of your DNA Sibling Test online

Methods of the DNA Sibling Test
During a DNA Sibling Test, a painless buccal (mouth) swab sample is collected from the alleged siblings. The sample contains cells, and most of the cells in our body contain a full set of genetic information in the form of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). A person’s DNA represents a “genetic blueprint” and, like a fingerprint, it is unique to each individual.

At the laboratory, the DNA is extracted from the cell and specific regions of the DNA are amplified by a process known as PCR (polymerase chain reaction). The DNA pattern of the siblings are compared to each other.

A statistical analysis is performed based on the match type typically expected for true biologically related sibling pairs, and a “full sibling index” and “half sibling index” are obtained.

• Biologically related full sibling pairs (same father and mother) are typically expected to have a full sibling index value that is greater than 1.0
• Biologically related half sibling pairs (only one parent in common) are typically expected to have a half sibling index value that is greater than 1.0
• The greater the sibling index value over 1.0, the higher the likelihood that the two individuals are biologically related as siblings
• Individuals who are not siblings are expected to have sibling index values that are less than 1.0

Splitting the kit
If the individuals to be tested live in different cities, or even different countries, the DNA collection kit can be split and each component sent to a different address. The components are individually barcoded and the buccal samples will be tested together, even if sent back separately.