Topical Collection

Genetic Testing

Editor

Joep Geraedts, PhD

Emeritus Professor of Genetics and Cell Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, the Netherlands

Website | E-Mail

Research Interests: reproductive genetics; cancer genetics; preimplantation genetic diagnosis; genetic testing; evolution, etc

Topical Collection Information

The special issue genetic testing will cover a broad range of activities, which can be divided in the following types of testing: genealogical, forensic and medical. Furthermore, genetic testing is done in both humans and animals. In this special issue attention will be paid to the methods used. Finally, also the ethical and legal aspects will be covered.
Genealogical testing is done to determine ancestral ethnicity and relationships. Many companies are offering these tests. Based on a saliva sample ancestral information, including Neanderthal ancestry is reported.
Forensic DNA testing in humans can be applied among others to test suspects of crime but also for identification purposes of missing persons, crime victims or in case of adoption. Y chromosomal haplotyping is employed in paternity disputes.
In wildlife forensic testing is used to determine illegal trade in protected and endangered species or to trace the geographic origin or the species of a sample.
Medical genetic testing is done before, during and after pregnancy to identify chromosomal mutations and single gene disorders. Testing can be done for screening, diagnosis, and prognosis of diseases consistent with a genetic cause and to guide drug therapy to improve drug efficacy and avoid adverse effects (pharmacogenomics).
All medical genetic testing should be voluntary. Therefore, this special issue will devote attention to risks, complications and counselling aspects as well.

Publication (10 papers)