Accuracy Of Dna Testing
RFLP DNA testing was the first type of actual DNA testing performed. RFLP stand for restriction fragment length polymorphsim. RFLP testing typically requires a blood sample, but a swab of the inner cheek can be used in some situations. RFLP testing is considered to be more accurate than PCR testing in some cases. This is because this type of testing presents more information regarding paternity.
PCR DNA testing is the method most commonly used today. PCR stands for polymerase chain reaction. In most cases this form of testing only requires that a swab from the inner cheek be provided as a DNA sample. This is the preferred method because it is much quicker. However, this type of DNA test only looks at between six and nine genetic markers. This means the test provides less information than its predecessor RFLP.
Since PCR testing is used more often than RFLP testing it is important to know how it works. PCR testing takes the DNA sample provided and examines it very carefully by magnifying and multiplying it. This method is the preferred method when a small sample of DNA is all that is available or when the sample has been contaminated or damaged. During the process the sample is heated, primers are added, then the sample is cooled.
Most labs no longer offer RFLP DNA testing. This is because in most cases PCR DNA testing is just as accurate in most cases and the results are provided more quickly. RFLP testing is only used cases in which DNA needs to be examined more closely.