Home / About Us
What Is DNA?
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is a complex molecule that contains the instructions an organism needs to develop, live, and reproduce.
DNA Blurb
DNA, or Deoxyribonucleic Acid, is the molecule that contains the genetic instructions for life. Each cell in the human
body contains DNA, which is composed of two strands forming a double helix. These strands are made up of
nucleotides, each consisting of a phosphate group, a sugar molecule, and a nitrogenous base (adenine,
thymine, cytosine, or guanine).
Key Functions of DNA
- Genetic Information Storage: DNA stores all the information required to build and maintain an organism.
- Protein Synthesis: DNA sequences are transcribed into RNA, which is then translated into proteins, the building blocks of cells.
- Replication: DNA can replicate itself, ensuring genetic information is passed on during cell division.
Importance of DNA
- Heredity: DNA carries genetic information from parents to offspring, influencing traits and characteristics.
- Medical Research: Understanding DNA helps diagnose genetic disorders, develop treatments, and advance gene therapy.
- Forensic Science: DNA profiling is used in criminal investigations to identify individuals.
DNA and Evolution
- Genetic Variation: Mutations in DNA contribute to genetic diversity, driving evolution and adaptation in species.
- Natural Selection: Variations that offer survival advantages are passed on to future generations, shaping species’ evolutionary path.
Modern Applications
- Ancestry Testing: Traces lineage and provides insights into ethnic backgrounds.
- Personalized Medicine: Tailors medical treatments based on individual genetic profiles.
- Biotechnology: Advances in genetic engineering and synthetic biology rely on DNA manipulation.
Most Common Inherited DNA Diseases
Genetic Insights into Obesity & BMI
- The Obesity & BMI Genetic Insight test uncovers the genetic factors behind your metabolism and weight-response patterns. It shows whether your risk for a higher BMI is low, average, or high. These insights empower you to take better control of your long-term health decisions.
Diabetes: Understand Your Genetic Risk
- The Type 2 Diabetes Genetic Risk Test uncovers your body’s natural tendencies toward sugar regulation and insulin function. With one score, you learn where you stand and what actions will help you stay healthier. It’s early awareness that puts you in control—not your genetics.
Heart Disease
- Heart disease often strikes silently. This DNA test reveals hidden genetic risks that routine checkups may miss. With a simple score, you learn how strongly your genes influence CAD, helping you take control before problems begin.
Hypertention (High Blood Pressure)
- Your DNA affects how tightly your blood vessels behave, how you process salt, and how your body manages pressure. This test converts those genetic signals into a clear risk score, helping you understand your long-term BP risk and plan preventive steps.
Cholesterol
- This test uncovers whether your genes secretly push your cholesterol levels upward — even if you eat healthy. With a simple color-coded risk score and personalized tips, it acts as an early warning system long before symptoms appear.
Pharmacogenomics
- Pharmacogenomics reveals how your unique genetic makeup affects the way you process medicines. It gives you a personalized response profile, showing whether you’re a normal responder, non-responder, or sensitive to certain drugs. This reduces trial-and-error in treatment.
Cancer
- Hereditary Cancer Screening analyzes 60+ proven cancer-risk genes to show if you have inherited mutations linked to certain cancers. A positive result doesn’t mean you have cancer it simply tells you that your lifetime risk is higher and early monitoring can help.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Vision Loss)
- Your genes play a big role in how vulnerable your eyes are to AMD. This test scans for important markers linked to both dry and wet AMD and reveals your genetic risk level. It helps you understand whether you need early monitoring and protective lifestyle changes.
Understanding your DNA can give you valuable insights into your health and ancestry. Genetic testing at Ancestry India DNA can help identify your risk for these and other genetic conditions, providing the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your health.
Explore more about DNA and its implications for our health and heritage at Ancestry India DNA.
Join Us in Building a Healthier India
Whether you're a patient, researcher, or healthcare provider, there's a place for you in our mission to democratize genetic testing.