Dictionary

alleles: Variations at a particular site on a chromosome.

ampFLP: A highly sensitive method for detecting polymorphisms in DNA. DNA undergoes a restriction enzyme digestion, and a subset of DNA fragments is selected for PCR amplification and visualization.

ancestry: To trace a family line from parents to as far back as can be traced.

autosomal DNA tests: A way of genetic testing using certain markers for informal paternity, maternity, and siblingship testing.

bloodline: A direct line of descent or pedigree.

chromosomes: Bundles of DNA that vary in size, shape, and function. They are most visible when cells divide.

descent: A system of acknowledged social parentage whereby a person may claim kinship ties with another.

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid): The genetic blueprint that determines a person’s biological characteristics, located in the cells. A child inherits one half of its DNA from the mother, and the other half from the father.

DNA fingerprinting: A method for identifying individuals by the particular structure of their DNA. Like individual fingerprints, no two DNA structures are completely alike.

DNA sequencing: A determination of the sequence of nucleotides in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) molecules.