Genetic Marker | DNA Testing Glossary
A genetic marker is a specific, known location on a strand of DNA that can be used to identify or distinguish individuals. In DNA relationship testing, laboratories analyze a panel of genetic markers — typically short tandem repeat (STR) loci — and compare the patterns found at each marker between the tested individuals. The more markers tested, the greater the statistical power of the result. The industry standard for relationship testing is 20 or more markers. US Diagnostics Center analyzes up to 28 genetic markers, which adds data points and strengthens confidence in the result.
Related Terms
STR (Short Tandem Repeat), Locus, Allele, DNA Profile, Combined Paternity Index
