PRO-DNA DIAGNOSTIC INC.

A DNA test is a process that allows for the examination of small regions of the DNA that vary greatly from one individual to another. By analyzing and comparing these regions, it is possible to determine the source of a biological substance or the family relationships between individuals.

How is DNA used to prove or disprove paternity?
Since everyone inherits half of his or her genetic material (DNA) from his or her mother and the other half from his or her father, DNA analysis makes it possible to determine first, which maternal traits are present in the child, and second, to check whether the remaining traits are present in the presumed father. If the latter does not have the traits that the child must have inherited from his or her biological father, then paternity is excluded If the presumed father has these traits, then paternity is statistically established.

How accurate is the paternity test?
The paternity tests performed by PRO-DNA Diagnostic provide clear unequivocal answers. If the presumed father is not the biological father, the probablity of paternity will be 0%. If the presumed father is the biological father, the paternity will be confirmed with a minimum probability of 99.95%.

Is a blood sample better than a buccal sample?
No. A buccal sample yields results that are as accurate as those obtained from a blood sample. In fact, since the DNA is identical in each and every cell in a person's body, a wide variety of biological samples, even dating back several years, can be used because the DNA molecule is highly stable.

Can the paternity test be performed if the mother is unavailable?
In most cases, the samples are taken from the mother, child and presumed father, but it is also possible to conduct the test with samples from only the child and the presumed father. However, if the mother is not available, it is the legal guardian or representative who must sign the child's consent form if the latter is under 18 years of age. Under no circumstances will our laboratory conduct a test without the consent of the parties concerned.

Do all the parties have to be present at the same time and at the same sampling centre?
Generally speaking, the mother, child and presumed father must be present at the same time and at the same sampling centre in order to identify each other. However, it is possible to take samples at different times or at different places if the parties do not wish to see each other or if they live in different regions.

Does the DNA test have any legal value?
Yes. PRO-DNA Diagnostic undertakes to establish its protocols according to standard laboratory practices and to maintain a strict chain of custody in order to ensure the admissibility of the results in the courts. Moreover, PRO-DNA Diagnostic's analysis is established on the basis of several thousands of genetic profiles. If necessary, a qualified professional can testify in court regarding the results of a DNA test, the procedures followed or the chain of custody.

Are the results confidential?
Yes. All the circumstances surrounding a DNA test, as well as the results obtained, are strictly confidential. To ensure their confidentiality, no results are disclosed either over the telephone or by fax. The assessments are sent to the previously authorized persons by courier and a signature is required upon receipt.

Is it possible for a person to alter his or her DNA and to falsify the results?
No. Alcohol, drugs, medications, age, and lifestyle cannot alter DNA. Only a bone marrow graft alters the DNA, and it affects only the DNA of the blood cells. The blood cells of the recipient of the graft thus contain the same DNA as that of the donor, but the DNA of the buccal cells remains unchanged.

What are some of the reasons why a person might request a DNA test?

To establish the truth in a family dispute
To use in a dispute concerning child support
To recognize a child as his or her offspring
To resolve ambiguous family situations that are a source of anxiety
To look for his or her biological father or mother
To prove family relationships for an immigration application in the absence of official documents
To contest a will
To obtain a medicolegal assessment