Identification of ancestry by DNA test

Have you ever wondered what percentage of your ethnicity is Indian, how much is Turkish, how much is Central Asian, how much is from the Far East? Yes, it can be found out. A DNA genetic test can be done for this. 

DNA ancestry tests have gained a lot of popularity in recent years, testing different people about their ancestral roots, ethnic ancestry, and even possible ancestry with distant relatives. Provide information. In addition, they can provide information about possible diseases based on their genetic makeup. Such information can help in taking preventive measures. 

Some companies, such as 23AndMe, AncestryDNA, and MyHeritage DNA, offer kits that collect DNA samples from consumers and profile them. These tests scan specific parts of a person's DNA and then compare their DNA with traits or variations associated with specific regions or populations around the world. Using complex algorithms and large reference databases, these companies can estimate an individual's racial percentage. Some of these services, such as 23AndMe, also provide reports of potential health risks. These reports show genetic variants that increase the risk of Parkinson's disease or breast cancer or other possible genetic diseases. But keep in mind that having a disease-related genetic variation in someone's DNA does not necessarily mean they will develop the disease. It only shows the possibility. These types of tests have become quite popular these days due to easy availability and there has also been an increased interest among people to see how much we belong to an ethnic group. 

Now the question arises, how does modern DNA compare to ancient species? The answer lies in the growing trends in ancient DNA (aDNA) research.  Researchers have had the option to concentrate and grouping DNA from old remaining parts, for example, bones and teeth safeguarded at different archeological locales all over the planet. In spite of the fact that DNA corrupts after some time, certain circumstances, like cold or dry conditions, can save limited quantities of DNA for millennia.Small amounts of DNA can be synthesized by combining them using special techniques. Once sequenced, this ancient DNA provides a genetic profile of the ancient people who lived in different periods and regions. When you send your DNA to a testing company, your genetic data is compared to a comprehensive database of older generations to determine possible ancestry. 

Commercially available tests, as mentioned earlier, have made genetic knowledge publicly available, helping to democratize genetic knowledge. As far as the diagnosis of health and genetic diseases is concerned, a common person should consult medical experts instead of deciding for himself. 

However, there are some ethical concerns and privacy risks associated with genetic knowledge. Although many people access their data in hopes of finding family connections or better understanding their ancestry, there are concerns about privacy, data security, and potential misuse of genetic data. For example, government agencies may use databases of various individuals in their investigations without the necessary permits. Once these agencies have access to this data, individuals within these agencies can misuse this data for malicious purposes. In addition to state agencies, there are also threats from malicious organizations involved in identity theft. By accessing this database, malicious entities or individuals can falsely implant a person's identity or even produce fake DNA evidence. Additionally, there is the potential for insurance companies or employers to access this data, which could discriminate against people at higher risk of genetic diseases, such as their health insurance. The premium should be kept higher or job opportunities should be reduced for them. We still do not know exactly what DNA data could be used for misuse.