A DNA Relationship Test assesses whether or not two or more persons are biologically related. Relationship Testing encompasses a broad variety of tests, including Paternity and Maternity Tests, and Twin Zygosity Tests. Other testing services offered by Synergene include:

Siblingship Testing to confirm whether individuals share one or both parents (that is they are brothers and sisters or half-brothers and half-sisters).

Grandparentage Testing to confirm the biological relationship between an individual and an alleged grandparent.

Avuncular Testing (Aunt or Uncle Analyses) to measure the probability that a person is the biological aunt or uncle of a second person.

Relationship Tests are commonly ordered by individuals who need to know whether or not they are biologically related; possibly for legal or immigration purposes, for peace of mind or simply out of curiosity. Reasons for taking the test include: resolving questions of custody or child support; confirming the authenticity of a family tree; reuniting branches of a family that may have lost contact; assessing biological relationships in cases of adoption; or helping to confirm relationship of a child conceived through alternative reproduction technologies.

Since situations that require relationship testing vary considerably, Synergene treats each one individually and advises the customer on the optimum testing strategy and the possible outcomes. Depending on the nature of the case and the samples available, Synergene employs one or a combination of genetic tests to resolve the query. Genetic tests may include:

• DNA Profiling, which allows the genetic profiles of two or more individuals to be compared so that their probability of biological relatedness may be calculated.



• Y Chromosome Analysis (YSTR), which assists in determination of the biological relationship between males through their direct paternal lineage.



• Mitochondrial DNA Analysis (mtDNA), which assists in the determination of both male and female relationships through the direct maternal lineage.

Synergene supplies a free sample collection kit that employs a simple and painless procedure, using a mouth swab to wipe off a specimen of saliva and cheek cells from a subject's mouth. The collected specimens are deposited in specially supplied packets that are then mailed to our lab.

At Synergene, the samples are analysed with our state-of-the-art genetic identification systems. Depending on the complexity of the case, results are available approximately 1-4 weeks after arrival of the samples at our lab. The test report is sent only to the designated individuals to ensure that the case is treated in strictest confidence.

The cost of a relationship test depends on the testing strategy and the number of samples involved. Our "Pricing Information" page lists prices and turnaround times for the more common relationship tests. In more complex situations Synergene will discuss the requirements of the test with the customer before calculating and quoting the cost and the anticipated turn around time. We accept payments by credit card or direct bank transfer.

For detailed instructions on how to collect and send the samples click here.

For more information or to order a free sampling kit:
Call Synergene at (+356) 21490888, or e-mail us at spl@synergene.net.