Twin DNA Testing
Twin DNA Testing, or Zygosity testing, is a type of DNA test to determine if twins are identical or not. Also, the same applies to triplets. So, Zygosity testing covers all children from the same birth, not only twins.
How Twin DNA testing works
Two siblings carried in their mother’s womb at the same time are always referred to as twins. Yet the twins can either be identical twins or fraternal twins. The twin DNA test can prove whether you, or your children, are identical or fraternal twins. By comparing the DNA profiles of each twin, we can determine if twins are identical or fraternal.
So, we can use this DNA Test to answer the following questions:
- Are my twins identical or non-identical?
- Am I an identical or non-identical twin?
Frequently Asked Questions
What will a twin DNA test tell me?
There is great interest in twin DNA testing these days, and not only for curiosity. For instance, there are practical reasons for finding out if you or your children are identical twins. Here’s some examples:
- To adapt your approach when treating siblings as individuals.
- To assess the likelihood of conceiving twins again.
- When asked to take part in any research about multiple births.
- Last, while it might seem obvious, you have the answer ready when asked “Are you/they identical?”
What are fraternal (dizygotic) twins?
Fraternal twins develop from two separate egg cells fertilised by two separate sperm cells. The DNA of each egg cell and each sperm cell varies. Thus, the DNA formed within the two fertilized eggs (zygotes) are not identical. The embryos will continue to develop with their own individual DNA molecule. So, the fraternal twins will have different DNA profiles. (As the twins have developed from two separate zygotes, they are often referred to as dizygotic twins.)
The DNA profiles of fraternal twins can be as different as the profiles of any two siblings that are not twins. In other words, they only share half of their genes in common like other siblings.
How do I order a twin DNA test?
Here are the options available to you:
- Call 0800 988 7107 to make an appointment at a DNA Clinic or order a *DNA self-collection Home Kit
- Call 0800 988 7107 to arrange a home visit from a sample collection officer
* Please note, the twin DNA test is only available as a peace of mind purposes option. This test cannot be used for legal purposes.
How do I collect my own twin DNA samples?
We have provided some useful guidance for test participants collecting their own samples for a DNA twin test.
What are identical (monozygotic) twins?
When one egg cell is fertilized by one sperm cell, identical twins develop. This fertilized egg, also known as a zygote, splits during its early development, resulting in two identical embryos. In other words, they are from a single fertilised egg which then split into separate embryos.
Also, as the twins have developed from one zygote, they are often referred to as monozygotic twins. The embryos will continue to develop into identical twins. The DNA of identical twins is exactly same, so they will have identical DNA profiles.
How accurate is the twin DNA test?
We use the DNA samples taken from mouth swabs to generate a DNA profile for each twin. The twin DNA test analyses the DNA profiles of both twins. If the profiles are different, then the twins are fraternal. Conversely, if the profiles are identical, then we will calculate the probability of identical twins, usually at 99.99% accuracy.
How much does a twin DNA test cost?
You can see examples of twin DNA test prices using the link below.
Local DNA Clinics, and mobile locations throughout the UK
For your convenience, we have a network of DNA Clinics throughout the UK. As a result, we can provide twin DNA test appointments for you in your local area. Alternatively, we can arrange for a certified sample collection officer to visit your home or other convenient location of your choice.
Head Office
Crystal Health Group
The Old Chapel
Manchester
M30 0NG