How does Y-STR testing work?
Men pass the Y chromosome to each of their sons, and it does not change very much between generations. This special inheritance pattern allows us to track paternal lineage. During a Y-STR test, we examine specific loci (locations) on the Y chromosome to generate a profile for each male tested. Males who are related through their fathers will tend to have the same or similar Y-STR profiles, and males who are not related will likely have different Y-STR profiles. This test is often used to infer paternity when the alleged father is not available for testing. This test can also confirm the biological relatives of an adoptee.