Terri Ramsey Beavers Your DNA makes up the building blocks of who you are. It stands to reason that unlocking your genetic code could be extremely helpful in finding answers about who you are.
So, is it absolutely necessary to know yours? In this article, we’ll tell you about the uses of DNA sequencing and extraction along with why you may want to consider digging into your own genetic code.
What Is DNA?
DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid. DNA is found in every cell in your body and holds your genetic code. It’s almost always found in the nucleus of the cell, but can occasionally be found in the mitochondria.
DNA is like an instruction book for your cells. It tells them which proteins they need to make.
Multiple Applications for DNA
There is a multitude of applications for DNA extraction. Finding out about what you can use DNA for can be helpful when looking for answers about anything from your health to your heritage. Below are some of the most useful ways to use DNA sequencing.
Vaccines
DNA is essential for the development of many life-saving vaccines. Recombinant DNA (DNA formed artificially by combining components from different organisms) was crucial to the development of the Hepatitis B Vaccine.
Forensics
Possibly one of the more well-known applications for DNA is the use of identifying a suspect’s genetic material at a crime scene. DNA extractions during a criminal investigation can be taken from hair or blood at the scene.
Ancestry
Many people are now taking advantage of the opportunity to use their DNA to find out more about their ancestors. There are many companies that will take a sample of your saliva and turn it into information about the people you came from and any possible living relatives.
Paternity Questions
Another helpful application of your DNA comes in handy if you are doubting whether you or someone else is the father of a child. By taking a sample from the potential father and the baby it can be determined who the real father of the child is.
Medical Testing
Often times the road to diagnosing a medical condition depends on getting answers from a person’s DNA. There are many diseases that are hereditary and finding out a concrete diagnosis is contingent upon the results of blood tests.
Some of the conditions include cystic fibrosis, Marfan syndrome, and Down syndrome.
Getting Answers
If you would like to learn more about getting your DNA sequence, there are plenty of resources online. It’s often a good idea to get some answers and have a better understanding of who you are and where you come from.
Take Advantage of the Uses of DNA
Now that you understand the different uses of DNA you might be thinking about uncovering your own genetic code. There are plenty of companies that can help you find answers about your DNA, so why not get started today?
Looking for more informative posts? Check out other helpful articles here on our blog to keep you in the know.