Paternity (genetic) testing after birth

A postnatal paternity test, or DNA test, is a test performed to confirm the genetic link between a child and his or her parents, usually the father. The test compares the child’s DNA with the father’s DNA to scientifically prove whether or not there is a parent-child relationship; DNA contains the genetic information of an organism, half of which is inherited from the mother and the other half from the father. This allows the paternity test to determine the parent-child relationship with a very high degree of accuracy.

Paternity Assessment Process

DNA sample collection

Usually, cells are collected from the mucous membranes of the oral cavity using a cotton swab. This method is painless and easy to perform, making it a less burdensome procedure for babies and adults. Other DNA can also be collected from blood or hair.

DNA analysis

DNA is extracted from the collected samples and analyzed for specific genetic markers (called STR: Short Tandem Repeat).These markers are different for each individual and are used to confirm parent-child relationships.

Determination of parent-child relationship

By comparing the DNA markers of the child and the father, it is possible to determine with a very high probability whether a parent-child relationship exists. The probability of the test result is usually greater than 99.9%, either proving a parent-child relationship or confirming that there is no parent-child relationship.

Reliability of appraisal results

DNA paternity testing is widely recognized as a very accurate and scientifically reliable method. It is usually used as legal evidence in trials and other legal proceedings. However, if a legally valid appraisal is desired, it must be done through proper procedures at a designated facility.

It is used in the following cases

Confirmation of legal parent-child relationship: Used to prove parent-child relationship in cases of non-marital status or when legal issues related to custody or child support arise.
Personal Confirmation: This may be done to confirm a genetic link within a family or to confirm a parent-child relationship for peace of mind.

Cost of Inspection

The cost of a paternity test varies depending on the facility and the nature of the test, but generally ranges from several tens of thousands of yen to several hundred thousand yen. For legally valid appraisals, there may be additional costs for procedures and documentation.

Paternity testing is a very reliable means of confirming family relationships and is accurately performed in specialized facilities when necessary.

医師監修監修日：2024年9月14日

岡博史（おかひろし）

医師・医学博士／ヒロクリニック統括院長

YouTubeチャンネルなどを通じて、遺伝子やNIPT（新型出生前診断）についてわかりやすく発信しています。

略歴

1996年慶應義塾大学医学部卒業
2004年慶應義塾大学医学博士号取得
2005年慶應義塾大学皮膚科学教室助手
2008年ヒロ皮フ形成クリニック開業
2009年医療法人社団福美会理事長
2015年医療法人社団福美会理事

資格・所属

CAPラボディレクター
日本皮膚科学会皮膚科専門医
日本医師会産業医
東京衛生検査所指導監督医

発信・関連リンク

この記事は、ヒロクリニックNIPPTの編集・監修体制にもとづき、資格を持つ医師が内容を確認しています。

医師監修監修日：2024年9月14日

堤修一（つつみしゅういち）

医師・医学博士／ヒロクリニック博多駅前院院長

略歴

1993年東京大学医学部医学科卒業
2016〜2019年東京大学先端科学技術研究センター准教授

発信・関連リンク

プロフィール詳細

この記事は、ヒロクリニックNIPPTの編集・監修体制にもとづき、資格を持つ医師が内容を確認しています。

参考文献

Jobling MA, Tyler-Smith C. The human Y chromosome: an evolutionary marker comes of age. Nat Rev Genet. 2003 Aug;4(8):598-612.
van Oven M, Kayser M. Updated comprehensive phylogenetic tree of global human mitochondrial DNA variation. Hum Mutat. 2009 Feb;30(2):E386-94.
Buckleton JS, Triggs CM, Walsh SJ. Forensic DNA Evidence Interpretation. Boca Raton: CRC Press; 2005.
Butler JM. Advanced Topics in Forensic DNA Typing: Methodology. San Diego: Academic Press; 2011.