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A growing number of companies offering DNA analysis may be of interest for genetic and genealogical research, said Diahan Southard.
That's a good thing, said the eminent genetic genealogy consultant to dozens of people gathered on Saturday at the Allen County Public Library. But aspiring genealogists must also be careful when choosing a company to analyze their genetic markers, she said.
"Many companies say," Hey, give us your data, "said Southard. "They are not all trustworthy. Pay attention."
Southard was "stung by the DNA virus" in high school, according to her website, she earned a degree in microbiology from Brigham Young University, Utah, and was one first researchers to study the correlation between genetics and genealogy. She writes for genealogical publications and is featured on a podcast devoted to research.
During four lectures that lasted most of Saturday, she helped dozens of participants learn more about genealogy and explain to people looking to learn more about their family history to use the analysis. DNA from trusted companies such as Ancestry.com and 23andMe.
The first lecture, titled "Three Powerful Ways to Find Your Best DNA Matches" – explained how companies are using DNA samples provided by users to provide information about nationalities and possible matches with shared parents. According to Mr. Southard, all the information is based on reliable scientific data, but each company approaches the analysis differently and can provide slightly different information.
For example, 23andMe can restrict nationalities to more countries in Europe than some of the other companies.
"There are more companies joining in," said Southard. "And it's fantastic. I am everything to do that. "
The intersection of genetics and genealogy has become popular in recent years because companies have made DNA analysis easier and less expensive. The MIT Technology Review, a technology website run by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, reported in February that people who had tested their DNA with direct-to-consumer kits had doubled in 2017 to reach over 12 million.
The tests range from about $ 60 to about $ 100.
"Most of the people tested are in the United States, suggesting that about one in 25 Americans now has access to personal genetic data – a figure that could result in a range of new medical services." genetic analysis, "says the website.
Patrick Deady, who attended the morning conference and stated that he was conducting genealogical research for a decade, is one of those who took advantage of the trend. The Fort Wayne resident also had his DNA analyzed and discovered a surprise.
"What was probably the most exciting was finding a cousin in New Zealand," he said.
Since then, he has visited his recently discovered family member and has regularly exchanged text and video messages with his cousin.
"It's an amazing thing to have happened," said Deady.
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