DNA Maternal Ancestry Test

DNA Maternal Ancestry Test – Trace Your Mother's Lineage

What's your DNA story? Trace your roots and discover new details about your family history on your mother's side.

• Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequencing
• Trace your direct maternal lineage
• Access extensive databases to match your DNA to populations around the world
• Find long-lost relatives, discover ancient origins, and compare against famous people
• Both men and women can take this test

Detailed Description

This DNA test sequences your maternally inherited mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), allowing you to trace the ancestry of your direct maternal lineage (your mother's, mother's, mother's… maternal lineage).

The mtDNA contains three regions: HVR1, HVR2, and Coding. Testing the HVR1 and HVR2 regions allows you to use all search and analysis features of the database. Testing all three regions is required to confirm your mtDNA haplogroup and subclade.

Test Options

• Standard Test: HVR1 sequence. Often sufficient for adequate resolution.
• Advanced Test: HVR1 + HVR2 sequence.
• Premium Test: Full mtDNA genome sequence (HVR1 + HVR2 + Coding Region). Highest resolution available.

Upgrade Option: Start with the Standard Test and upgrade to Advanced or Premium if higher resolution is needed — a cost-efficient approach.

Both males and females have mtDNA, so both genders can take this test to trace their maternal ancestry. However, only females pass their mtDNA down to the next generation.

What is mtDNA?

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is found in the mitochondria of human cells. Each cell can contain several mitochondria, and each mitochondrion contains dozens of copies of mtDNA — meaning thousands of copies per cell. All of us inherit our mtDNA exclusively from our mothers. This mtDNA remains essentially unchanged through the maternal line, making it an incredibly useful tool for tracing maternal ancestry.

What is mtDNA Sequencing?

The circular mitochondrial genome has three regions — two small hypervariable (HVR) regions and a large coding region. It is possible to sequence just the HVR1 region, both hypervariable regions (HVR1 and HVR2), or the complete mitochondrial genome. The hypervariable regions comprise approximately 1,100 bases of the mtDNA genome and contain most of the variation. The complete mitochondrial genome is 16,569 base pairs.

Your mtDNA sequencing results are compared to the revised Cambridge Reference Sequence (rCRS), and all positions that differ are listed in your report. Your unique mtDNA sequence is known as your mtDNA profile. People descended from the same maternal lineage are expected to have identical or very similar mtDNA profiles. Different profiles conclusively confirm different maternal lineages.

Four Powerful DNA Databases Included

• DNA Reunion Database: Search for long-lost family lines. Ideal for genealogists, adoptees, and individuals looking for biological relatives.
• Indigenous DNA Database: Determine which indigenous groups are most similar to your DNA type.
• DNA Haplogroups Database: Trace your ancestry back over 100,000 years to its ancient roots in Africa.
• Famous DNA Database: Compare your DNA to royalty and notable historical figures including Marie Antoinette, Genghis Khan, Nicholas Copernicus, and King Richard III.

How It Works

Step 1: Order the DNA Maternal Ancestry test online. Enjoy the convenience of having the kit delivered straight to your doorstep.
Step 2: Register and activate your kit online, then collect your DNA sample using the painless mouth swab included. Place your sample in the prepaid return envelope and mail it to the lab.
Step 3: Once your sample arrives, it will be tested with precision and care. Access your results through the secure online platform — private and confidential.