DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) is the genetic material present in almost every cell in the body. Inside each cell, the DNA molecule (which looks like a ladder structure that has been twisted into a spiral) is organized into chromosomes. Each person has 46 chromosomes or 23 pairs, one set from each parent. Thus, a person receives half of their genetic material or DNA from the biological mother and the other half from the biological father.
		The DNA test is the most powerful method of identification in use today. It examines the DNA, the root of genetic variation. The DNA testing procedure produces a pattern for each individual. These patterns are similar in appearance to the bar codes found on products in the supermarket. DNA testing can thus be used to establish the familial relationship between individuals, as well as to certify the origin of almost any biological tissue by comparing it to another known specimen.
		For example, while each person is genetically unique, parents and children will share some DNA. It is this shared DNA which makes DNA testing useful in matters of paternity. In paternity cases, the lab compares the bands of the child and alleged father. If there is a non-match, the alleged father is excluded and if there is a match, the lab determines, using a population database, how often the match occurs in the general population. The odds of a match can then be converted in to a probability. For example, in all paternity cases where there is a match, the probability of paternity will be greater than 99.9% and 0% in the case of a non-match.