Common Male Ancestor Test FAQ

How much is the Common Male Ancestor Test?

The Common Male Ancestor Test is only $295, call 800-523-3080 to order, order on-line, or download the order form and fax or mail in your order. Don't forget to take a look at our other informational genetic testing products now as you receive significant discounts when ordering tests at the same time. If you are interested in seeing a sample report, visit our sample report page.

Can I trace my maternal ancestry?

Not through Y-chromosome analysis. Y-chromosome analysis only retraces the paternal line. mtDNA testing can trace your maternal line. See our Common Female Ancestor Test page for information on this test.

How far back can I trace my roots?

An exact match with another Y-chromosome test will indicate the same paternal ancestor at some point in the last 500 generations. The test also provides information on the origination of your paternal line and where it has spread today.

How is Y-chromosome DNA different to DNA?

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) makes up our genetic material, and carries instructions for the biochemical processes of development and life. It comprises a double-stranded chain/sequence of c. 3,000,000,000 bases. Four types of bases are present in DNA, their chemical names are: adenine, cytosine, guanine and thymine. Y-Chromosome DNA has several unique features:

The presence of a Y-Chromosome causes maleness. This little chromosome, about 2% of a father's genetic contribution to his sons, programs the early embryo to develop as a male.

It is transmitted from fathers only to their sons.

Most of the Y-Chromosome is inherited as an integral unit passed without alteration from father to sons, and to their sons, and so on, unaffected by exchange or any other influence of the X-Chromosome that came from the mother. It is the only nuclear chromosome that escapes the continual reshuffling of parental genes during the process of sex cell production.

What happens to my DNA after it has been analyzed?

After analysis your sample is destroyed. Only you see the results for your sample.

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