How Many Types of DNA Test Are There?
When people hear “DNA test,” they often picture one type of result — but in reality, DNA testing serves many different purposes. From establishing family relationships to improving medical treatment, the technology has become central to both health and justice.
At AttoGroup, we bring together a family of accredited companies that each specialise in a different area of DNA testing. Whether you’re seeking clarity, clinical insight, or peace of mind, the right kind of test makes all the difference.
Understanding DNA Testing
DNA — short for deoxyribonucleic acid — is the biological code that makes each person unique. By comparing specific regions of DNA, scientists can uncover patterns of inheritance, health risks, and even medication response.
But not all DNA tests look at the same parts of your genome. The markers used in one type of test might differ completely from those in another, depending on the question being asked.
So when someone asks, “Why would I need a DNA test?” the answer is simple: it depends what you want to know.
1. Legal Relationship Testing: AttoLife
When a DNA test is required for court proceedings, local authorities, or the Home Office, the results must be conducted under strict legal chain of custody.
At AttoLife, our accredited experts handle every step — from sample collection to reporting — ensuring compliance, confidentiality, and turnaround speed trusted by child law practitioners nationwide.
2. Peace of Mind Relationship Testing: AssureDNA
Sometimes DNA testing isn’t about legal evidence — it’s about reassurance. AssureDNA offers discreet, reliable at-home testing kits for paternity, maternity, or extended family relationships, with results delivered securely and privately. It’s the same high-quality analysis used in legal tests, just without the formal documentation.
3. Genotyping & Health Insight: AttoDiagnostics
DNA isn’t only about family. It’s also a window into how your body works. AttoDiagnostics uses advanced genotyping to analyse hundreds of genetic markers linked to metabolism, nutrient efficiency, and medication response. The result is a scientific profile that helps doctors and patients move towards truly personalised care. AttoDiagnostics provides this service to many of the consumer DNA tests that you may see advertised online.
4. Pharmacogenomic (PGx) Testing: AttoDiagnostics
Even the most prescribed medications don’t work the same way for everyone. AttoDianostics performs pharmacogenomic testing for both clinicians and patients, allowing them to choose the right drug, at the right dose, for the right person. This type of DNA testing identifies how your genes affect your response to medicines — from antidepressants to statins — helping reduce side effects and treatment failure.
Every DNA Test Tells a Different Story
What matters is asking the right question — and choosing the right Atto company to find the answer.