Autosomal DNA | DNA Testing Glossary
Autosomal DNA is the DNA contained in the 22 pairs of non-sex chromosomes (autosomes) that every person inherits — one set from each biological parent. It makes up the vast majority of a person's genome. In DNA relationship testing, the STR markers analyzed are located on autosomal chromosomes, which is why these tests work equally well regardless of the sex of the individuals being compared. Autosomal DNA is inherited in a predictable pattern: a child receives roughly 50% from each parent, about 25% from each grandparent, and decreasing amounts from more distant relatives. That predictable inheritance pattern is what makes autosomal STR analysis effective for determining biological relationships.
Related Terms
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid), STR (Short Tandem Repeat), Locus, Genetic Marker, Relationship Testing
