DNA Conversation Starter #1: What Is Genetic Testing?
Welcome to Pathway Genomics’ first, official DNA Conversation Starter. We felt the best way to kick off this campaign was to start with the basics and to answer the first question that comes to many of our minds—What is genetic testing?
If you mention the term “genetic testing” reactions can vary widely—from curiosity, to reticence or anxiety, to enthusiastic acceptance. The reality is, DNA testing has been used for decades, primarily to determine the paternity of children and to obtain forensic evidence for police investigations and legal trials.
In case your high school science classes don’t come readily to mind, here’s a quick refresher: Within every human cell are 23 pairs of chromosomes that house approximately 25,000 genes—coded instructions for building and maintenance of a human body. Our genes are composed of the chemical, DNA. DNA, or Deoxyribonucleic Acid, is the fundamental building block of humankind’s genetic “blueprint” and contains the biological instructions that make our species different from others, and every person (except identical twins) unique.
In the past few years, the science of DNA testing has advanced exponentially, both in the amount of information genetic tests can reveal, and in the precision and reliability of the results. Today, companies like Pathway Genomics are making it easy and affordable for consumers to test their DNA privately and securely, and gain information that can help them make more-informed health and lifestyle decisions. You may still be asking yourself, how does it work?
How it works
Pathway Genomics’ genetic testing service starts by a customer ordering a genetic health or ancestry report. A DNA collection kit is then delivered via mail, containing a saliva collection vial, simple instructions, and a prepaid return envelope. Once a customer returns their saliva sample to Pathway Genomics’ laboratory, and activates their account online, the genetic results are returned in only a few weeks. By using customized and innovative DNA genetic testing technologies, Pathway Genomics conducts comprehensive genotyping services to provide customers with personalized genetic test reports, outlining their propensity for disease, carrier status, drug response, and ancestral history.
Why test? Perhaps you’re simply curious! If you’re like most people who take a personal DNA test, however, discovering the details of your DNA can help you understand more about your biology and empower you to take more proactive control of your health and wellbeing. If you are interested in learning more about why you should test or what you can learn look forward to our next set of DNA Conversation Starters on these topics.