December 8, 2021
Science

Genome and Genetic Testing

Genome is said to be the cumulative genetic data of a particular organism.
By
Tomohiro Takano

Genome is said to be the cumulative genetic data of a particular organism. The genome contains the “nucleotide sequences of DNA.” It comprises both the coding region of the genes, the noncoding, Chloroplast, and mitochondrial Deoxyribonucleic Acid.

While the genome study is Genomics, many studies have gone into analyzing the human genome; the latest was successfully rounded up sometime in 2013. Nevertheless, the term ‘genome’ has been around for quite some time now; it can be traced back to 1920, when botanist Hans Winkler first used it in Germany. But not until 1976, Walter Fiers of the University of Ghent introduce a complete nucleotide sequence of a Bacteriophage MS2.

Sometime in 1995, “Haemophilus influenzae” surfaced: the first sequenced bacterial genome, carried out by a scientific team at The Institute for Genomic Research.

So many studies have been carried out on the genome, and it is now more apparent to an average researcher what a genome is and what it entails. One of the positive outcomes of this past research is the better understanding of the “Viral Genome.” The viral genome is made up of DNA (or RNA). The genome of an RNA virus can be made up of two strands: the double-stranded and the single-stranded RNAs. In most cases, it may contain more than one RNA molecule and can be segmented into multipartite or monopartite. As for the DNA virus, it is made up of a particular linear molecule of DNA. But not all of them are so; for some other DNA virus, genomes are made up of DNA molecules. Single-stranded RNA works as a template for both mRNA synthesis and single-stranded RNA – it is also known to serve as a template for DNA synthesis.

Click here to learn more about DNA and RNA


Genetic Testing - What it Entails

While we try to shed more light on “what is a genome,” It is vital that we highlight the science of genetic testing, which is also a result of decades of genome experiments. Genetic testing is defined as one of few medical tests carried out to determine the changes in chromosomes, genes, or proteins. A genetic test result can either affirm or disapprove of any suspected genetic stance. In often cases, genetic testing is deployed to determine an individual’s possibility of passing on or developing a genetic disorder. According to the National Library of Medicine, over 77,000 genetic tests are presently used, while others are still under development.

Genetic testing changes in:

• Genes

Using genetic testing, DNA sequences identify mutations (or variations) in the genes. It is used to identify those mutations that have a higher propensity of causing some genetic ailments or disorders in a person. Genetic testing can be extensive or narrow in scope depending on the approach you give, especially when it is deployed in analyzing a person’s DNA nucleotide or genome. 

• Chromosomes

Genetic testing in chromosomes is introduced when the need to analyze all the chromosomes to better understand massive genetic changes in a person arises. An example of this is a situation where there is an additional copy of chromosomes that may be triggering some genetic condition.

• Proteins

With biochemical, genetic testing, studies are carried out on the number of enzymes or proteins in a person. An abnormal in either of the two (enzymes and proteins) indicates changes in the DNA; thus, it may be considered a genetic disorder.


Bottom Line 

The Genomelink Connection

According to Genomelink, some devoted scientific researchers have created over 10,000 studies that border around genetics. The outcomes of these studies are what is used to develop an algorithm, a database dedicated to carrying out accurate genetic DNA testing. The job of Genomelink here is to collect the data from the genetic testing result, analyze it, and give feedback based on the contents of the data. Using the platform will dictate your traits using the results from the DNA testing. Anyone can perform this task; all you need to do is upload your raw DNA data on the site to generate a comprehensive report. But mind you, Genomelink doesn’t and is not in a good position to make any health recommendations based on the generated results.

This is a perfect way for those who find it needful to trace their ancestors. This platform has a way of linking your traits to connect to your ancestry. The result is broken down into a more straightforward, understandable manner. And the interesting part is that the report comes for free. And as for those who wish to extend their search for career and personality traits, they can subscribe to the paid version. The report from this section gives you a comprehensive insight into the five predisposed genetic personalities, also known as the “big 5 personal traits.”

Note:

Genetic testing is entirely voluntary. Because there are two ways to this process, considering the risk and the benefits involved, the person’s consent is needed. This is why it is always advised first to seek the option of a geneticist counselor to help you understand the risks and benefits: the emotional and social implications of the process before you make up your mind to go for the testing.

If you are interested in genetic testing, you don’t need to go through a health care provider. Simply visit any testing company such as 23andMe, AncestryDNA, or MyHeritage. They all have their specialties, and with Genomelink, upload your raw DNA data, and you will be able to unlock more insights from your DNA.


References:

https://genomelink.io/ 

https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/testing/genetictesting/#:~:text=Genetic%20testing%20is%20a%20type,passing%20on%20a%20genetic%20disorder.

https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/testing/procedure/

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genome

https://resources.selfdecode.com/blog/genomelink-review/

https://nebula.org/blog/genomelink-review/#:~:text=Genomelink%20is%20raw%20DNA%20data,on%20various%20%E2%80%9Cfun%20traits%E2%80%9D.&text=Genomelink%20is%20a%20DNA%20data,first%2025%20reports%20are%20free.


Tomohiro Takano
Tomohiro Takano
Co-Founder and CEO