PATERNITY TEST
What is a paternity test?
A paternity test is based on the principle that each individual inherits 50% of their genetic makeup from each parent. Through the analysis of specific STR (Short Tandem Repeat) genetic markers, which are highly variable within the population, it is possible to determine with certainty the biological compatibility between two subjects.
The Forensic Genetics Laboratory of the University of Rome “Tor Vergata” uses advanced technologies to perform reliable tests even in complex situations, such as assessments in the absence of the alleged father or in cases involving post-mortem bone samples.
What is analyzed
- Autosomal STR markers, located in non-coding DNA and without health implications.
- Variability is determined by the number of repeats at each locus, highlighted through capillary electrophoresis.
The entire process is supported by advanced statistical software that enables the calculation of paternity probability according to SIGU and ISFG guidelines.
When a paternity test may be needed
- Verification of biological paternity (father–mother–child or father–child)
- Alleged father deceased (analysis of close relatives or bone remains)
- Legal cases (custody, child support, recognition/disavowal)
- Family reunification for immigration purposes
- Inheritance disputes (verification of biological kinship)
How the test works – Analytical steps
Collection of the biological sample: buccal swab, non-invasive, suitable even for newborns
DNA extraction and purification
DNA quantification and amplification (PCR)
Capillary electrophoresis for fragment separation
Statistical analysis and calculation of paternity probability
Useful information
Required documentation
On the day of the appointment, please bring:
- A valid ID for all individuals involved
- Self-certification of family status (required only in the case of a minor)
Arrival at the laboratory
- A forensic biologist will explain the procedure, the purpose of the test, and the contents of the informed consent form
- Subjects will be identified through document verification (stored together with the consent form and the report)
- After signing the consent, the buccal swab—simple and non-invasive—will be performed
- Samples are registered, anonymized, and immediately sent for analysis
Reporting times
- Standard paternity test: approximately 7 working days
- ONE-DAY paternity test: 24 hours from sample collection
Report delivery
The report may be:
- Picked up in person or by a delegated individual
- Sent via email (in protected format)
Legal warnings
In accordance with the Authorization for the Processing of Genetic Data issued by the Italian Data Protection Authority (Official Gazette No. 3, 4 January 2013), and in compliance with Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (General Data Protection Regulation – GDPR), the following practices are strictly prohibited and punishable under applicable law:
- Performing genetic testing without the free, specific, informed, and explicit consent of all individuals concerned;
- Collecting biological samples from minors without the authorization of the holder of parental responsibility or legal guardianship;
- Using anonymous, illicitly obtained, or clandestinely collected biological samples.
The Laboratory processes genetic data exclusively for lawful purposes, in accordance with the principles of lawfulness, fairness, transparency, data minimization, purpose limitation, and security, ensuring the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms of the data subjects.
Legal validity of the test
The test performed at our laboratory complies with current regulations and is legally valid like any other medico-legal report.
