Genetic testing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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genetic testing

[dʒəˈnɛtɪk ˈtɛstɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

medical science

Genetic testing is a medical test that examines a person's DNA to determine if they have certain genetic conditions or are at risk of passing them on to their children. It can also be used to identify genetic mutations that may increase the risk of developing certain diseases.

Synonyms

DNA testing, genetic screening, genomic testing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
genetic testing	Used in a general context to refer to the examination of a person's genes to identify changes or mutations that might contribute to certain diseases or conditions. Often used in medical and healthcare settings. She decided to undergo genetic testing to determine if she was at risk for breast cancer
DNA testing	Commonly used when referring to tests that involve analyzing DNA sequences for various purposes, including paternity tests, ancestry research, and forensic investigations. Provides a broader scope beyond just medical applications. The police used DNA testing to identify the suspect in the criminal investigation
genomic testing	Is focused on analyzing the entire genome to understand genetic variations that may affect how an individual responds to medications, susceptibility to certain diseases, or other health-related issues. Often used in personalized medicine and advanced medical research. The doctor recommended genomic testing to tailor the cancer treatment plan based on the patient's specific genetic makeup
genetic screening	Refers specifically to the process of testing populations or subpopulations for certain genetic traits, often with the aim of early detection and prevention of disease. Usually applied in public health and preventive medicine contexts. Newborn genetic screening helps detect metabolic disorders early in infants

Examples of usage

Genetic testing can help individuals make informed decisions about their health.
The results of genetic testing can provide valuable information for doctors to create personalized treatment plans.
Genetic testing is often recommended for individuals with a family history of genetic disorders.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

consumer market

Genetic testing is also available direct-to-consumer, allowing individuals to explore their ancestry, genetic traits, and potential health risks without involving a healthcare provider.

Synonyms

ancestry testing, at-home DNA testing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
genetic testing	Use this term when referring to the process of examining DNA sequences to identify changes or mutations that might indicate a risk for specific diseases or conditions. It is commonly used in medical contexts. Genetic testing can help detect the risk of inherited diseases. After genetic testing, we found out he has a mutation in the BRCA1 gene.
at-home DNA testing	This phrase is appropriate when discussing DNA tests that can be done privately at home. These tests are often used for both health insights and genealogy information. At-home DNA testing kits make it easy to learn about your genetics without visiting a lab. He ordered an at-home DNA testing kit to find out more about his ancestry and health risks.
ancestry testing	This term is best used when talking about finding out your heritage and ethnic background. It provides insights into one's genealogical history. Ancestry testing revealed that she has roots in several European countries. With ancestry testing, you can discover more about your family tree.

Word

Description / Examples

genetic testing

Use this term when referring to the process of examining DNA sequences to identify changes or mutations that might indicate a risk for specific diseases or conditions. It is commonly used in medical contexts.

Genetic testing can help detect the risk of inherited diseases.
After genetic testing, we found out he has a mutation in the BRCA1 gene.

at-home DNA testing

This phrase is appropriate when discussing DNA tests that can be done privately at home. These tests are often used for both health insights and genealogy information.

At-home DNA testing kits make it easy to learn about your genetics without visiting a lab.
He ordered an at-home DNA testing kit to find out more about his ancestry and health risks.

ancestry testing

This term is best used when talking about finding out your heritage and ethnic background. It provides insights into one's genealogical history.

Ancestry testing revealed that she has roots in several European countries.
With ancestry testing, you can discover more about your family tree.

Examples of usage

Many people use genetic testing services to learn more about their heritage.
Direct-to-consumer genetic testing has become increasingly popular in recent years.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The concept of genetic inheritance dates back to Gregor Mendel's experiments with pea plants in the 1800s.
In 1953, scientists James Watson and Francis Crick discovered the structure of DNA, which is crucial for understanding genetics.
The first genetic testing on humans was performed in the 1970s to detect certain genetic disorders.

Healthcare Advancements

Genetic testing can help predict the likelihood of developing serious health conditions like cancer, but not everyone with a genetic marker will get sick.
Some tests can personalize medication and treatments based on an individual’s genetic makeup, enhancing their effectiveness.
The field of pharmacogenomics studies how genes affect a person's response to drugs, leading to more tailored medical care.

Ethical Considerations

There are significant ethical debates around genetic testing, particularly concerning privacy and consent regarding personal genetic information.
Some worry that genetic information could lead to discrimination by employers or insurance companies.
The concept of 'designer babies' raises concerns about the manipulation of genetic traits and moral implications.

Pop Culture

The topic of genetic testing has been featured prominently in popular media, including movies like 'Gattaca,' which explores a dystopian future based on genetic discrimination.
Genetic testing companies have emerged as a new industry, with advertisements promising to reveal your ancestry and health risks, contributing to its popularity in modern culture.
Television shows and documentaries increasingly tackle genetic issues, raising public awareness and interest about the implications of genetic testing.

Scientific Developments

Next-generation sequencing technology has dramatically reduced the cost and time required for genetic testing, making it more accessible.
CRISPR technology, developed in the 2010s, has opened possibilities for gene editing that may alter genetic diseases at their source.
Ongoing research into the human microbiome is exploring how our genes interact with bacteria, potentially reshaping our understanding of health.

Origin of 'genetic testing'

The history of genetic testing dates back to the early 1900s when scientists first began studying the role of genetics in inherited traits and diseases. The field has since evolved rapidly with advancements in technology and research, leading to the development of various genetic testing methods. Today, genetic testing plays a crucial role in healthcare, personalized medicine, and ancestry exploration, offering valuable insights into individual health and genetic heritage.