Avuncular testing refers to the process of testing the DNA of a child's paternal aunt or uncle to determine the likelihood of a biological relationship. This kind of DNA test can help establish paternity in cases where the father is not available. Learn more about why and how avuncular testing is performed below.

Why Are Avuncular Tests Done?

Proving paternity has practical and often legal benefits. For example, it can entitle the child to the father's Social Security survivor benefits or inheritance. It might also be used for immigration purposes—for instance, to obtain American citizenship via an immediate familial relationship. 

In some cases, however, a man may not be available to do a DNA test himself—for example, because he is deceased or incarcerated. If there are also no siblings or grandparents, avuncular testing can be used instead to test the DNA of the man's siblings (the child's paternal uncles or aunts) to verify paternity.

How Do Avuncular Tests Work?

To understand how avuncular testing works, it's important to understand some genetic basics. First, a person's genetic makeup consists of an even blend of paternal and maternal genes, and they will share half of their genes with a full biological sibling. This means that a man's full siblings—the child's aunts or uncles—will share half of his genes, which will show up in a DNA test.

The DNA for an avuncular test can be collected by taking a swab of cells from the inside of the child's and aunt or uncle's cheek. The genetic makeup of the cells can then be compared to determine the likelihood of a relationship to the suspected father.

Why Should the Child's Mother Also Provide a DNA Sample?

The accuracy of an avuncular test can be improved if the child's biological mother also provides a DNA sample. Geneticists can then determine which genetic markers come from the maternal side, ensuring they aren't confused with paternal markers. Without the mother's input, the results of an avuncular test may be inconclusive.

If you're interested in avuncular testing, AccuDNA of Saint Louis, MO, can help. This locally owned and operated DNA testing center has been in business since 2004. They provide affordable, accurate, and confidential testing for a variety of situations. Visit their website to learn more about their avuncular testing. To schedule an appointment, call (314) 845-9997.