7 Reasons Why Your DNA Report May Feel Inaccurate!

Most DNA reports are quite accurate, but things can sometimes get weird…

Living With Genes Newsletter | Issue #2 — 7 Reasons Why Your DNA Report May Feel Inaccurate!

Imagine the excitement of receiving your long-awaited DNA test results. You eagerly scroll through pages of your DNA report, hoping to uncover hidden connections to royalty or maybe even a genetic superpower that allows you to indulge in endless hamburgers without getting fat. But then, something curious happens… your results seem inaccurate, leaving you scratching your head and wondering, “Is my DNA report just a load of nonsense?”

Some consumers may find certain results from their DNA report to be different from reality. But before we dismiss the results, we need to understand the nuances of why there may be discrepancies. Source of DNA report template from Imagene Labs.

Fear not, for you’re not alone in this perplexing journey of self-discovery. As someone who has given his genetic sample (yes, my saliva) to numerous consumer DNA companies, I’ve come to realize that the world of genetic self-discovery is far from straightforward. It’s rife with intricacies and nuances that can lead to unexpected results, leaving you questioning the very essence of your genetic makeup.

In this article, we’ll delve into 7 intriguing reasons why your DNA test results might make you doubt their accuracy, and perhaps even your genes.

1. Saliva Quality Matters

Foreign particles from food, liquids, toothpaste, or even tobacco by-products can mask your DNA, resulting in a degraded sample that is unsuitable for testing.

One of the most critical factors affecting the accuracy of DNA test results is the quality of the sample you provide. Your saliva contains valuable genetic material that holds the key to unlocking your genetic insights. However, submitting a contaminated sample can lead to inaccurate results.

There are 2 main ways for consumer DNA testing companies to collect your genetic sample — the spit and the swab. Image source from Google.

Foreign particles from food, liquids, toothpaste, or even tobacco by-products can mask your DNA, resulting in a degraded sample that is unsuitable for testing. To ensure the highest accuracy, it’s crucial to refrain from consuming anything at least an hour before collecting your DNA sample. This short period of abstinence allows your saliva to return to its natural state, free from contaminants that might have entered your mouth during your daily activities.

By starting with a pristine sample, you significantly increase the chances of obtaining accurate and reliable DNA test results. So, take a moment to ensure that your saliva sample is as pure as possible.

2. Cheap Isn’t Always Good

Unaccredited laboratories may sacrifice quality in their pursuit of affordability, lacking the facilities and knowledge required to conduct a comprehensive and precise genetic analysis.

The surge in consumer genetic testing has flooded the market with various providers offering tests at different price points. While the allure of a budget-friendly option can be tempting, remember the age-old adage, “You get what you pay for.” This wisdom holds truer than ever in the realm of genetic testing.

One of the primary pitfalls of opting for a cheap genetic testing option lies in the potential lack of accreditation of the laboratory conducting the analysis. Accredited laboratories undergo stringent evaluations, ensuring that they possess the necessary equipment, expertise, and quality control measures to deliver accurate and reliable results.

Accredited DNA companies follow a proper chain of protocols that ensures your DNA samples are properly gathered and moved. This improves accurate and rapid diagnostics and reduction of errors in the laboratory process. Image source from DNA Forensics Laboratory

Conversely, unaccredited laboratories may sacrifice quality in their pursuit of affordability, lacking the facilities and knowledge required to conduct a comprehensive and precise genetic analysis. This can result in potential inaccuracies, incomplete information, or even misinterpretation of your genetic data.

So, when it comes to your DNA, prioritize quality testing from a reputable DNA company. Remember that the cost should never compromise the accuracy and reliability of your results.

3. Stick To Your Gene Pool

While we are genetically 99.9% similar, the remaining 0.1% difference attributed to racial genes can create variations in accuracy.

DNA testing companies rely on reference datasets to create their interpretative algorithms for DNA testing. These datasets are often based on the population from the country where the company is located. For example, a DNA company headquartered in Europe might use a European (Caucasian) gene pool as a reference for their DNA interpretative formulas. Conversely, a Chinese DNA company would draw from a Chinese gene pool.

Many differences between different ethnic groups have been observed, such as skin color, eye color, height, susceptibility to some diseases, and response to certain drugs. However, the genetic bases of such differences have been under-investigated. Source from BMC Genomics. Image generated from Midjourney.

While we are genetically 99.9% similar, the remaining 0.1% difference attributed to racial genes can create variations in accuracy. For example, if a European-based DNA testing company conducts a DNA test for an Asian individual, slight inaccuracies may emerge for specific traits.

To enhance the accuracy of your DNA test, it’s wise to follow the traditional saying that “birds of the same feather (or genes) should flock together.” Over time, these discrepancies tend to decrease as DNA companies expand their genetic databases across different countries, enabling more accurate DNA matches across diverse racial groups.

4. Different Companies, Different Markers

Different DNA companies employ their proprietary algorithms for genotyping, and these variations in methodologies can lead to discrepancies in your DNA analysis.

Most consumer DNA test companies focus on specific genetic markers known to contain variations associated with traits, ancestry, and health conditions. This method is referred to as genotyping.

Genotyping is the process of determining the DNA sequence, called a genotype, at positions within the genome of an individual. Sequence variations can be used as markers in linkage and association studies to determine genes relevant to specific traits. Image source from Illumina

Different DNA companies employ their proprietary algorithms for genotyping, and these variations in methodologies can lead to discrepancies in your DNA analysis. For instance, one DNA company might report a 10% predisposition to a specific trait, while another may suggest a 15% predisposition because they’ve analyzed a different variant genetic marker using an alternative formula.

While these differences in interpretation aren’t inaccuracies, they can contribute to variations in your DNA test results across different companies.

5. Nature X Nurture

If your results don’t align with your expectations, it might not be an inaccuracy but rather the nuanced interplay of genetic inheritance and environmental factors.

Your DNA can provide insights into your natural predispositions, but it’s important to remember that your life choices and experiences significantly influence how these genetic traits manifest in reality.

Twins who are 100% genetically may develop different appearance and personalities based on environmental and lifestyle differences. Image source from Unsplash

For example, if your DNA report suggests you have a low tolerance for alcohol, you can still develop a high tolerance if you’ve grown up drinking alcohol with friends who love it. Similarly, if your DNA predicts you’ll have a full head of hair, you can still experience hair loss if you’ve used damaging hair products throughout your life.

If your results don’t align with your expectations, it might not be an inaccuracy but rather the nuanced interplay of genetic inheritance and environmental factors.

6. Genetic Knowledge Evolves

Over time, genetic researchers uncover new genes, associations, and mechanisms, reshaping our comprehension of genetic influences on traits, health conditions, and ancestry.

Our understanding of genetics is a constantly evolving field. New research and discoveries are made regularly, leading to updates in the interpretation of genetic data.

DNA analysis techniques have progressed multiple times over the years as technology advances and facilitates more information with less (and even degraded) starting material. Image source from Freepik

Over time, genetic researchers uncover new genes, associations, and mechanisms, reshaping our comprehension of genetic influences on traits, health conditions, and ancestry. Leading consumer DNA testing companies often offer dynamic updates of your DNA report, incorporating the latest advancements in genetic science and discovery. This means that if new genetic markers related to traits or health conditions are identified, your DNA report can be updated automatically without the need for retesting.

If you ever doubt the accuracy of your DNA report, it’s wise to inquire with your DNA testing provider about the frequency of their research updates and whether they offer dynamic updates to their DNA testing services.

7. Shit Happens Sometimes

Sample contamination, data mix-ups, or glitches in laboratory equipment — these factors can come into play and affect the accuracy of your genetic test results.

Genetic testing is highly automated and precise, but it is not entirely immune to human error. Occasionally, a lab technician may inadvertently introduce contaminants into your DNA sample, or your DNA swab may be mistaken for another person’s sample. These and other factors can occasionally impact the accuracy of your genetic test results.

Sample contamination, data mix-ups, or glitches in laboratory equipment — these factors can come into play and affect the accuracy of your genetic test results. Reputable testing companies invest heavily in quality control measures and employ highly trained professionals to minimize such errors.

Sample to sample contamination occurs by transferring a small amount of one sample into another. Common sources include incorrect handling techniques, reagents, and disposable supplies. Info source from AG Scientific. Image source from Unsplash.

However, it’s important to remember that these errors are the exception rather than the rule. The vast majority of genetic tests yield reliable and scientifically sound results, and reputable testing companies have stringent quality control measures in place to minimize such errors.

If you suspect a genuine mistake or anomaly in your results, it’s always a good idea to reach out to the testing company for clarification or even request a retest.

In Conclusion

The world of consumer DNA testing is a thrilling journey that offers profound insights into our genetic heritage and potential. However, it’s essential to approach the results with a balanced perspective, recognizing the inherent complexities of genetics and the interplay between nature and nurture.

DNA tests can be highly accurate when conducted by reputable laboratories and for well-established purposes, such as paternity testing and medical genetic testing. However, as outlined above, the accuracy can vary depending on the type of test and the specific markers being examined.

Instead of dismissing your DNA report as “bullshit”, embrace it as an invitation to a fascinating adventure of self-discovery. Genetics, much like life itself, is a mixture of complexity and unpredictability.

Genetics & lifestyle affects how we age. From Midjourney AI

So, use your DNA results as a launchpad for exploration and consider seeking guidance from genetic counselors and professionals to decode the genetic mysteries that make you uniquely you. After all, it’s your genetic quirks that add flavor to your life’s story. Let your genetic adventures continue!

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Disclaimer: The content in this article is intended solely for informational purposes and may contain outdated information after the date of publishing that doesn’t reflect the latest scientific advancements. The content is presented “as is” and is not guaranteed to be complete or up-to-date.