“Autosomal DNA (atDNA) can help to identify ancestors within the most recent 5–7 generations of a family tree. We receive half of our atDNA from each of our parents. They received half of their atDNA from each of their parents, and so on, back the tree. Obviously, as we keep climbing the family tree, we can see that it’s impossible for us to each inherit equal amounts of atDNA from every ancestor. In fact, we are only guaranteed to share atDNA with second cousins or closer. As we look at relationships that include second cousins once removed and beyond, we must increase our caution and test more broadly.” - Quoted from Candice Buchanan, The Three Families of John Madison Livingood, 2022.
“A quick introduction to Autosomal DNA [by Dave Vance]. Topics include the underlying genetics, how much DNA you share with relatives, how people analyze their matches (at a very high level), ethnicity reports and health reports, and links to additional resources.”
Mitochondrial DNA is passed exclusively from mother to child. Though both sons and daughters receive mtDNA from their mothers, only daughters pass the mtDNA on to their own children. Both men and women can take this test to examine their specific matrilineal DNA. The mtDNA test examines the line of your mother’s mother’s mother right on back through the family tree.
“This talk [by Janine Cloud] looks at what mitochondrial DNA is, what it does, and the [Million Mito] project’s goals.”
Y-DNA is passed exclusively from father to son. Only males carry y-DNA. Females who want to study y-DNA lines will need to recruit participation by male relatives who share the patrilineal ancestor that they want to study. The y-DNA test examines the line of your father’s father’s father right on back through the family tree.
This video by is part 1 of 3 by Dave Vance. It is an introduction to Y-DNA for genealogists. “This first video focuses on Why? use Y-DNA for genealogy – what benefits does it offer and why should genealogists consider using Y-DNA as part of their research?” You can continue to watch parts 2 and 3 on YouTube.