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The mtDNA Maternal Lineage Test is used to establish whether individuals share a common maternal ancestor. Unlike standard DNA, which is inherited from both parents, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is inherited exclusively from the mother, making it a powerful tool for tracing maternal ancestry.

In this test, a short segment of mtDNA is sequenced and compared against the Cambridge Reference Sequence (RCRS). Only differences from the RCRS are listed in the report.

• Matching results indicate the individuals share a maternal lineage.

• Non-matching results indicate no shared maternal ancestor.

Who Needs to Be Tested

• Two (2) or more individuals (male or female) seeking to determine maternal relationship

Turnaround Time

• Standard: 14 business days

• No express service available for this test

Chain-of-Custody Testing (For Legal Purposes)

For legally defensible results (e.g., inheritance or immigration):

• Samples collected by a neutral third party (clinic or laboratory)

• Positive ID verified with government-issued ID, photo, and/or fingerprinting

• Standard DNA Diagnostics Center kit used

• Client Identification & Consent Form (COC-4002-CA) signed

• Guardianship of tested minors verified at time of signing

• Clients may not handle kits before or after collection

AABB Legal Requirement:
For mtDNA legal testing, an underlying relationship test must also be performed (e.g., siblingship, avuncular, or grandparentage). Testing for great uncles, great grandparents, or cousins is not permitted under AABB requirements.

Non-Chain-of-Custody Testing (For Personal Knowledge)

For peace-of-mind testing only:

• At-home buccal (cheek swab) kit provided

• Samples collected by individuals themselves

• Results not valid for legal purposes

• Names on report match how they are labeled on samples

• Each kit assigned a unique barcode for tracking and account reference

Important Notes

• DDC accepts buccal swabs only for mtDNA testing (no alternative or unusual samples).

• Results indicate likelihood of maternal relatedness but are not as definitive as parentage testing.

• mtDNA haplotypes are not unique—common haplotypes can appear in the population.

• Legal mtDNA testing always requires an additional relationship test to support the findings.

Key Features

• Confirms whether individuals share the same maternal lineage

• Results in 14 business days

• No express option available

• Legal (chain-of-custody) and non-legal options offered

• Applicable to both male and female participants

• Supports cases involving immigration, inheritance, and family verification