DNAlysis myDNAOrigin | Comprehensive Ancestry & Haplogroup Mapping | Test Kit

DNAlysis myDNAOrigin — Trace Ancestral Lineage Haplogroup Analysis

The DNAlysis myDNAOrigin test is a high-resolution genetic assessment designed to trace maternal and paternal lineages through molecular analysis. By evaluating thousands of autosomal markers alongside mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and Y-chromosome haplogroups, this laboratory screen identifies ancestral geographic distributions and ancient migration patterns. This scientific evaluation compares individual genomic variations against established global population databases to provide a detailed biological heritage profile. The resulting reports offer an objective, data-driven map of lineage history without clinical diagnostic assertions.

About DNAorigin

As a comprehensive ancestry test, DNAorigin analyses thousands of genetic variations in your DNA. By comparing these markers against established global population databases, the analysis traces back thousands of generations to determine the geographic origins of your ancestors.

Please note: The results from this test cover genetic haplogroups and their ancestral migration patterns. A family tree is not included in the standard results. LivingDNA offers an option to opt in for family matching, which is available only if family members have previously completed the DNA Origin test.

Where in the World is Your DNA From?

The story of our human ancestry is written in our genes. As DNA is passed down from generation to generation, it contains information from all of our ancestors, recombined in such a way that makes each individual unique.

The current genetic makeup of the world’s population is the direct result of migrations and settlements from Africa to the four corners of the world, which occurred as a result of changes in climate, cultural progress, and territorial conquests.

Today, human populations are largely organised into three ancestral population groups – Africa, Asia, and Eurasia – with distinct genetic diversity existing between these groups. By analysing millions of variants simultaneously, this test acquires excellent resolution in identifying your origin based on your genetic profile.

How It Works

1. Order the DNA Origin test via VitaGene.
2. Following purchase, a test kit is dispatched from DNAlysis to complete your sample.
3. DNAlysis arranges for the collection of your sample (detailed instructions are included in the kit).
4. The sample is processed at the DNAlysis laboratory, with the report ready within 6 to 8 weeks.
5. DNAorigin is a direct-to-consumer report. Access details for the online portal to view your DNAorigin results will be emailed directly to you. Click here to view a video guide on accessing your results.

View the DNAlysis process.

How Does Genetic Testing for Ancestry Work?

DNA is passed from parent to offspring, from generation to generation, over hundreds of thousands of years. Consequently, your DNA contains legacy biological information from all your ancestors, serving as a biological map to determine where your predecessors originated. The assessment evaluates:

• DNA stored inside your autosomal chromosomes
• DNA stored inside your mitochondria (mtDNA)
• The male Y chromosome

Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, including the sex chromosomes which determine biological sex (XY for male, XX for female). The Y chromosome only exists in males, passed directly from father to son across generations. For males, analysing the genetic information in the Y chromosome reveals paternal ancestry (the father's lineage). Paternal ancestry is defined by a haplogroup: a group of individuals who share the same genetic variations and share a common paternal ancestor. Paternal ancestry cannot be reported for biological females as they do not carry a Y chromosome.

Both males and females possess mtDNA, but it is exclusively passed down by the maternal parent. A mother passes her mtDNA to all of her offspring. Therefore, mtDNA analysis traces maternal ancestry (the mother's lineage). Maternal ancestry is similarly defined by a maternal haplogroup, representing a group of individuals sharing specific genetic variations inherited from a common maternal ancestor.

The Science

Modern humans (Homo sapiens) originated in Africa, the continent where our species has spent most of its existence, approximately 200,000 to 300,000 years ago. Around 60,000 to 70,000 years ago, a small East African population migrated out of Africa, giving rise to all non-African populations. Because genetic diversity increases over time, the much older African population exhibits significantly greater genetic diversity.

One group of these early migrants moved eastward, reaching India, Southeast Asia, and eventually Australia approximately 50,000 years ago.

Another group migrated to the Near East and Arabian Peninsula, subsequently splitting into two distinct paths: one group settled in Europe approximately 45,000 years ago, while the other returned to the African continent, settling in North Africa.

Populations settling across the Asian continent eventually reached Siberia. Approximately 15,000 to 20,000 years ago, they crossed the Bering Strait, entering the American continent for the first time.

Ancient DNA studies indicate that as modern humans migrated out of Africa, they interbred with other archaic human groups, specifically Neanderthals and Denisovans. Consequently, the genomes of modern European and Asian populations carry approximately 2.3% Neanderthal DNA, and Southeast Asian populations can carry up to 4% Denisovan DNA. In contrast, Sub-Saharan African populations carry no Neanderthal or Denisovan DNA, as these archaic groups were never present on the African continent.