Now how in the world does this relate to DNA? Well, it might be because I work for Identigene and I have become obsessed with DNA! But the movie got me thinking about my dog’s life. I’ve never tested her DNA, but I know common health problems for her breed include hip dysplasia, tumors, thyroid problems and bloat. Knowing these facts helps me decide what food and veterinary care I give her. What if you were like Pfeiffer and didn’t know your pet’s true breed or combination of breeds? There is DNA testing for mixed breed animals that answers these questions for some of the same reasons people seek out DNA testing.

Ahhh, now we’re back to paternity testing. Health and wellness are important benefits of paternity testing. If a child knows both of their biological parents, he/she can be aware of the family health history. Heart disease, diabetes, breast cancer and many other conditions can be linked to heredity. Knowledge is empowering. If we know our family’s health history, we can take preventative measures or make lifestyle changes to improve health and wellness.

Check out WebMD’s slideshow of the top 25 dog breeds and their most common health problems. http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/ss/slideshow-dog-breed-health-problems

DNA

It is thought that our ancient ancestors originated from Africa and began migrating throughout the world and adapted to new environments, thus creating distinct groups and subgroups in our DNA lineage. These ancient ancestral groupings are known as haplogroups. It is these haplogroups that allow DNA laboratories to provide people with results on their ethnic origins.
Our sister company, Sorenson Genomics, has developed a new DNA test dubbed World Wide Ancestry. World Wide Ancestry offers improved technology, enabling anyone to find answers to questions about their earliest family origins. The Sorenson Genomics team has spoken about this new technology at recent industry conferences. It will be available for purchase early next year.
The wonders of DNA never cease to amaze me. My paternity can be determined with a few cheek swabs in a matter of hours. Now, with new science breakthroughs, my DNA will provide surprising detail about my ancient relatives. I can’t wait to share test results with my mom!

While this is not a service offered by IDENTIGENE, it is out there.   Apparently, DNA Testing is used in cattle farming for many reasons.  For example, a farmer may test new cattle for paternity in a multiple bull breeding pasture.   Reasons for this include determining whether a bull is not breeding as often as others or which bull is producing bulls with ‘defects.’

Other farmers have been known to test the DNA of their cattle to curb out poor traits before breeding them.  There are a few major traits being tested for currently, one is curly calf syndrome.  This type of DNA Testing is done in an attempt to ensure that only the best cattle are reproducing.

While this testing in cattle may in fact produce a better crop of cows, it is eerily familiar.  I know its a reach from cattle DNA testing to a world like GATTACA, but I always get a little curious as to how far eugenics will take our society with DNA testing in its tool box.   But then again I think too much.

Even without this theory in mind the idea that we are using this type of testing for our cattle and various crops is extremely interesting, at least to me.  Really, where will we go next?  Any thoughts or questions?

Question: “If I send you my DNA and a copy of my birth certificate can you tell me if that is really where I was born?”

Answer: Unfortunately, your DNA does not contain any information about your birthplace.  Okay, this one has only come up once.  At the time I was extremely dumbfounded.  Honestly, I am still at a loss as to the logic on this one.

Question: “Can you tell if someone does drugs by testing their DNA?”

Answer: No, we cannot.  This is a more common question than you might expect.  Also, we cannot see alcoholism in your DNA either.

Question: “I was sick with the flu when I swabbed.  Will this change my results?”

Answer: No, your DNA is not affected by virus or bacteria.  It is also not impacted by cancer, HIV, or other diseases.

Question: “How old do you have to be to test your DNA?”

Answer: You can test an unborn child’s DNA by sampling the amniotic fluid of the mother.  Meaning, there is no age limit.  You can test a child right after he/she is born.  Your DNA is the same from the time of conception until you die.  And this question is not exactly weird, but it comes up often enough that I thought I would throw it in.

And the weirdest question I have ever heard?

Question: “Is it possible that my DNA is the Da Vinci Code?”

Yes, someone really asked me this, and yes I was able to contain my disbelief and reply.  My reply?  “I am not certain I understand how your DNA may be related to the Da Vinci Code.”

After this the customer abruptly hung up.

DNA is a subject that is not always easy to understand.  So, I wouldn’t hesitate to write or call and ask your questions.  At least you know there has always been someone who has asked something odder, right?