What is Twin Zygosity testing?
A Twin Zygosity Test is genetic test that determines if twins are fraternal (dizygotic) or identical (monozygotic).
Definition:
Zygosity refers to the degree of similarity in the genetic makeup of individuals with a specific focus on twins. It indicates whether twins are identical (monozygotic) or fraternal (dizygotic) based on the number of zygotes that form during fertilization.
DNA Testing For Twin Zygosity
At-Home DNA Test kit
An At-Home DNA test is a genetic test that can be performed at home. This testing option cannot be used for any legal purpose.
How to purchase a DNA kit?
1. The process is simple. Click the order button on the page below to purchase your DNA kit online, Or contact our office to order your test kit today by contacting our office to order by phone at 877-680-5800.
2. Once you order your kit you will receive an email confirmation shortly after ordering of tracking details of your shipment to your home.
3. Upon receipt of your kit. Follow your instructions, collect your samples, and ship the samples back to the lab using the prepaid shipping envelope enclosed with your kit.
4. When your result is completed. A copy of your result will be mailed to your home and a copy will be emailed to you the same day your DNA result is completed.
Please Note: Due to New York State Department of Health guidelines NY residents are unable to purchase At-Home DNA testing kits. If you require Twin DNA Testing.
Specimen collection types:
Cheek swabs is the commonly used method to collect DNA samples. Blood samples are also a viable sample collection option.
Turnaround Times:
The turnaround time for your results to be completed is 2 to 3 business days from the date the lab receives your DNA samples.
Upon the completion of your results a copy of your results will be emailed to you and a copy will be mailed to your home.
How much does a Twin Zygosity test cost?
The cost starts at $299.99. To purchase DNA test kit order online here.
Why Perform Twin Zygosity DNA Testing
There are several reasons why someone might choose to perform twin zygosity DNA testing, both personal and medical. Here are some of the main ones:
Personal reasons:
Curiosity: This is a common reason, especially for twins unsure of their zygosity (identical or fraternal twins) since birth. Knowing definitively can be satisfying and answer long-held questions about their identity and shared experiences.
Building identity: Understanding zygosity can help twins define their individual and shared identities. Identical twins often feel pressure to be similar, while knowing they are fraternal can help them embrace their individuality.
Medical reasons:
Organ donation: Identical twins have a nearly perfect match for organ transplants, and zygosity testing is essential to confirm compatibility before proceeding.
Medical research: Researchers often study identical twins to understand the interplay of genes and environment in health and disease. Knowing zygosity is crucial for accurate participation in such studies.
Personalized medicine: As personalized medicine advances, genetic information becomes increasingly important. Knowing zygosity can help tailor medical treatments and preventative measures for each twin.
Risk assessment: Although both twins share the same genetic makeup, individual environments and experiences can influence disease risk. Understanding zygosity can help doctors provide more precise risk assessments for certain conditions.
Ultimately, the decision to undergo twin zygosity DNA testing is a personal one. However, understanding the potential benefits, both personal and medical, can help individuals make an informed choice.
DNA Testing Limitation:
While twin zygosity DNA testing provides a statistical probability that twins are identical (monozygotic) or fraternal (dizygotic), there is always a slight chance of error even with identical test results and a high monozygotic probability.
This small possibility of misclassification is reflected in the probability statistic reported. Submitting DNA from the twins’ parents can enhance the analysis and improve statistical certainty of correctly determining zygosity.
Much like paternity testing, sibling DNA testing aims for very high accuracy, with leading labs achieving over 99% precision in confirming or excluding full biological sibling relationships. Similar stringent standards are applied to twin zygosity statistics to minimize any chance of incorrect zygosity determination.
Related Questions
Are Twin Zygosity DNA Tests legally admissible?
Yes. A twin zygosity test can be used for legal purposes if your DNA test iis performed legally. Please note, At-Home tests are for peace of mind purposes and are not recognized in court or for any legal purpose.
