How does a twin DNA test work?
Identical twins result when a single sperm cell fertilizes a single ovum and the egg then splits into 2, forming 2 separate embryos which are genetically carbon copies of each other. Non Identical twins result when two ova are fertilized independently by 2 independent sperm cells forming 2 embryos with different genetic makeups.
Our twin DNA test can confirm whether the DNA profiles of the test participants are identical (proving they are identical twins) or whether their DNA profiles are different (proving they are non-identical twins).
Collecting samples for a twin DNA test
Our home kit will enable you to collect DNA samples using simple mouth swabs. Collecting samples takes just a few minutes and can be done in the comfort of your own home, by the test participants themselves. View our step by step guide to collecting DNA samples.
You will then return the swabs for laboratory analysis.
Why carry out a twin test?
- Because looking at resemblance and the physical characteristics between twins is not always a clear way of knowing if twins are monozygotic or dizygotic. Non identical twins can look strikingly similar and may be confused as identical twins when in fact, they are not.
- Identical twins will have the same blood groups; they can donate blood to each other. Identical twins also make suitable organ donors for each other with chances of organ rejection being almost nil in cases where one identical twin donates an organ to another.
The cost of our Twin DNA test for 2 people is £119. Multiple siblings can be added to the test at an extra cost.