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FTDNA Y-DNA Learning Centre FAQ1. STR TestingDo more Y-DNA STR markers improve the quality of matches’ information?You should test more Y-chromosome DNA short tandem repeat (STR) markers when you wish to compare additional markers against others with similar results. They will refine your matches for genealogical purposes. It?does not increase the number of generations traced by a Y-DNA STR test but rather reduces the range of generations in the time to a common ancestor with your match.Testing additional STR markers can also help refine the matches in the Y-DNA – Ancestral Origins page. Testing more markers means that the information is more relevant to your personal ancestry. However, information on deeper origins (historical and anthropological) may be better answered with an extended Y-DNA SNP test like the Geno 2.0 test.If you do not have many matches or do not have many matches that have tested more markers, you may still choose to upgrade. That way as the database grows and you gain additional matches, you will be prepared to make comparisons that are more refined. Note that our Y-DNA111 is new enough that matching and information from matching may be limited by our current database size. ?This test is becoming more popular and the database is growing rapidly, so this should change over time.Don’t we all go back to Africa?Yes.?All of our Y-chromosome lineages trace back to a common ancestor who lived in Africa at least 115,000 years ago. Some lineages migrated out of Africa; others remained.This map shows each of the major (backbone) paternal haplogroups’ paths out of Africa.The path that our ancestors took tells a story about human history. Testing your relatives’ and your own DNA can help you understand both the diversity and commonalities of your part of the human story.How does the infinite allele comparison method work for palindromic markers?For palindromic markers, the infinite allele method counts a difference for two types of changes: a mismatch and a copy number change.Mismatches occur when?the compared markers do not match. For example, the first man might have DYS464 = 14-15-15-16 and the other man might have DYS464 = 14-15-16-18. This counts as a single difference toward the two men’s genetic distance.Palindromic copy number changes are when one male?has more copies of the STR marker than the other male. For example, one man might have DYS464 = 14-15-16-17 and the other might have 14-15-15-16-16-17. This also counts as a single difference toward the two men’s total genetic distance.When two men are compared and they show both a mismatch and a copy number change, it is counted as a genetic distance of two. For example, one might have DYS464 = 14-14-15-16 and the second person DYS464 = 14-15-15-16-16-17.How many generations does a Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) STR test trace?Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) tests trace both recent and distant generations. The number of generations traced by a Y-chromosome DNA test depends on the type of test taken, short tandem repeat (STR) or single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP).STR tests are able to trace a male lineage within genealogical times and into historic times. Your genealogical connections will be shown on the Y-DNA – Matches page of your myFTDNA account. The Y-DNA – Ancestral Origins page of your myFTDNA account will point towards possible countries of origin.*On the other hand, Y-DNA SNP tests are able to trace both ancient anthropological migrations and more recent prehistoric movements. A Y-DNA SNP test also identifies the haplogroup, which represents your deep ancestral origins (tens of thousands of years ago).*If you have few matches on either page, this list will not be statistically representative. You, therefore, will need to wait until more people are added to the database. Several thousand people are added every month.Why do I have more than one result for an STR value? What is a multi-copy STR marker?A multi-copy STR marker is one where there are multiple versions of the same STR in different locations on the Y-chromosome. Each STR copy changes independently. Therefore, it is typical to have different values for each copy.For example, DYS385 usually has two copies.What is the likelihood of a non-paternal event or false paternity?We believe that the rate of unannounced adoption or false paternity is about 1 – 3% per generation and compounds each generation. When confirming your lineage, we recommend that you test yourself and your most distantly related male ancestor to verify the line back to the common male ancestor.What is different about the STR markers DYS389I and DYS398II? Why is my DYS398II (DYS389-2) result at Family Tree DNA different from the Genographic Project?The?Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) marker DYS389 is a single STR marker that has four parts: m, n, p, and q.At Family Tree DNA we have two tests for DYS389. The first test looks at the first two parts of marker DYS389 (m and n). This is what we call DYS389I. The second test looks at all four parts of DYS389 (m, n, p, and q). This is what we call DYS389II. There are, by scientific convention, two ways to display the result of the second test. The first way to display the result is by showing the exact result from the original test. That is the total for the entire DYS389 marker (m+n+p+q). This is how Family Tree DNA displays the result.The second way is to show the result only for the second section that is tested by subtracting the DYS389I score from the original second test score. This is how the Genographic Project 1.0 test displayed the result. Some older publications also use this method.As long as you know which method is being used, you can convert between the two. For example, you add together the two DYS389 values from the Genographic Project to get the DYS389II value for Family Tree DNA. To convert to m+n, p+q format, subtract the DYS389I value from the DYS389II value in your Family Tree DNA results. This is the DYS389II value for the Genographic Project and elsewhere.What does each short tandem repeat (STR) marker mean?By themselves, Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) short tandem repeat (STR) markers from a Y-DNA test do not have any particular meaning. The value of testing Y-DNA STR markers comes from creating a Y-DNA signature (haplotype) with them and comparing that Y-DNA signature to others in a database. They are useful for genetic genealogy because your Y-DNA signature distinguishes your paternal lineage from others. They can then be used with Family Tree DNA’s comparative database to discover genealogical connections or historic ancestry.What do the DYS, DYZ, and DYF prefixes on Y-DNA STR names mean?The DYS, DYZ, and?DYF prefixes are part of the scientific name for a short tandem repeat (STR) found on the Y chromosome. STR markers are named according to guidelines published by the HUGO Gene nomenclature committee. For Y-DNA STR tests:D stands for DNA.Y stands for Y?chromosome.S, Z, and?F stands for the complexity of the repeat segment as follows: S is a unique segment.Z is a number of repetitive segments at one site.F is a segment that has multiple copies on the Y?chromosome.All STRs are given a unique identification number.For example, DYS393: the D?indicates that the segment is a DNA segment, ?the Y?indicates?that?the segment is on the Y?chromosome, the S indicates that it is a unique segment, and the number 393 is the identifier.Why don’t my Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) test results show me percentages?Your Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) test results cannot be used to indicate your percentage of DNA from different ancestral groups. This is because tracing your Y-DNA line only leads to one origin.Y-chromosome DNA Inheritance123Father’s FatherFatherFather’s MotherYouMother’s FatherMotherMother’s MotherY-DNA does not provide a breakdown of various ethnic origins from your other ancestral lines.You received your Y-DNA from your father who got it from his father, who got it from his father, and so on. This means that any ancestry from your mother’s side, father’s mother’s side, grandfather’s mother’s side, and so on, is not represented in your Y-DNA.If somebody doesn’t match me at 12 markers, how can they match me at a higher testing level?Aside from their having matching turned off at the Y-DNA12 level, someone might match you at a higher testing level but not Y-DNA12 because the genetic distance is more than the amount allowed for Y-DNA12 but not the higher level.For example, kit B193 has mismatches with kit B175 at DYS393 and DYS385. Each mismatch has a genetic distance of one for a total genetic distance of two. This is more than the amount allowed for a Y-DNA12 match. However, they do not have additional mismatches on the Y-DNA13-25 panel. Therefore, the genetic distance for their Y-DNA25 match is also two. As a genetic distance of two is within the limit for Y-DNA25 matching, they will show as matches in that category.Example: Genetic Distance of TwoKitSurnameHgDYS393DYS390DYS19DYS391DYS385DYS426DYS388DYS439DYS389|1DYS392DYS389|2DYS458DYS459DYS455DYS454DYS447DYS437DYS448DYS449DYS464B193SyplineI-M1701224141014–14111411121128179-1011112514193014-15-15-16B175SyplineI-M1701324141014–15111411121128179-1011112514193014-15-15-16B132SyplineI-M170132414814–14111411121128179-1011112514193014-15-15-16If two men share a surname, how should the genetic distance at 111 Y-chromosome STR markers be interpreted?In cultures where surnames are passed from father to son, there is additional evidence beyond a DNA match that two men who share a surname are related. Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) test results should be interpreted based on both this information and the actual results.Genetic DistanceRelationshipInterpretationRelated in This Number of Generations or LESSConfidence50%90%95%99%0Very Tightly RelatedA 111/111 match indicates a very close or immediate relationship.?Most exact matches are 3rd cousins or closer, and over half are related within two generations (1st cousins).24561Tightly RelatedA 110/111 match indicates a close relationship. Most one-off matches are 5th or more recent cousins, and over half are 2nd cousins or closer.36792Tightly RelatedA 109/111 match indicates a close relationship. Most matches are 7th cousins or closer, and over half are 4th or more recent cousins.589113RelatedA 108/111 match indicates a genealogical relationship. Most matches at this level are related as 9th cousins or closer, and over half will be 5th or more recent cousins.?This is well within the range of traditional genealogy.61011144RelatedA 107/111 match indicates a genealogical relationship. Most matches at this level are related as 10th or more recent cousins, and over half will be 6th or more recent cousins.?This is well within the range of traditional genealogy.71113165RelatedA 106/111 match indicates a genealogical relationship. Most matches at this level are related as 12th cousins or more recently, and over half will be 7th cousins or closer.?This is well within the range of traditional genealogy.81315186Probably RelatedA 105/111 match indicates a more distant genealogical relationship. Over half of matches will be 9th cousins or closer, and most matches at this level are related as or more recently than 14th cousins. If there is a tradition of a recent genealogical relationship, the best way to confirm it is to test additional family lines. By testing additional family lines, you can find the person in between who is a closer match to each of the others tested. This ‘in betweener’ is essential for you to find as their match proves the connection between the more distant matches.101517207Probably RelatedA 104/111 match indicates a more distant genealogical relationship. Over half of matches at this level are related as 10th cousins or closer. Most matches at this level are related as 16th cousins or more recently. If there is a tradition of a recent genealogical relationship, the best way to confirm it is to test additional family lines. By testing additional family lines, you can find the person in between who is a closer match to each of the others tested. This ‘in betweener’ is essential for you to find as their match proves the connection between the more distant matches.111719228Only Possibly RelatedA 103/111 match indicates a distant cousinship with only a chance of a genealogical relationship. Over half of matches at this level are related as 12th cousins or more recently. Most matches at this level are related as 18th cousins or more recently. The connections here can be highly informative for relationships with historic groups and events. If there is a tradition of a recent genealogical relationship, the best way to confirm it is to test additional family lines. By testing additional family lines, you can find the person in between who is a closer match to each of the others tested. This ‘in betweener’ is essential for you to find as their match proves the connection between the more distant matches.131921249Only Possibly RelatedA 102/111 match indicates a distant cousinship with a chance of a genealogical relationship. Over half of matches at this level are related as 13th cousins or closer. Most matches at this level are related as or more recently than 20th cousins. The connections here can be highly informative for relationships with historic groups and events. If there is a tradition of a recent genealogical relationship, the best way to confirm it is to test additional family lines. By testing additional family lines, you can find the person in between who is a closer match to each of the others tested. This ‘in betweener’ is essential for you to find as their match proves the connection between the more distant matches.1421232710Only Possibly RelatedA 101/111 match indicates a distant cousinship with some chance of a distant genealogical relationship. Over half of matches at this level are related as 15th cousins or closer. Most matches at this level are related as 22nd cousins or more recently. The connections here can be highly informative for relationships with historic groups and events. If there is a tradition of a recent genealogical relationship, the best way to confirm it is to test additional family lines. By testing additional family lines, you can find the person in between who is a closer match to each of the others tested. This ‘in betweener’ is essential for you to find as their match proves the connection between the more distant matches.16232529>10Not RelatedThe two men are totally unrelated within the genealogical time-frame on their direct paternal line. Their shared ancestry is historical or anthropological.----If two men share a surname, how should the genetic distance at 67 Y-chromosome STR markers be interpreted?In cultures where surnames are passed from father to son, there is additional evidence beyond a DNA match that two men who share a surname are related. Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) test results should be interpreted based on both this information and the actual results.Genetic DistanceRelationshipInterpretation0Very Tightly RelatedA 67/67 match between two men who share a common surname (or variant) means they share a common male ancestor within the genealogical time frame. Their relatedness is extremely close. All confidence levels are well within the time frame that surnames were adopted in Western Europe?with the common ancestor predicted, 50% of the time, in three?generations or less and with a 90% probability within five?generations.?Very few people achieve this close level of a match.1 or 2Tightly RelatedA 65/67 or 66/67 match between two men who share the same surname (or a variant) indicates a close relationship. It is most likely that they matched 36/37 or 37/37 on a previous Y-DNA test. Very few people achieve this close level of a match. All confidence levels are well within the time frame that surnames were adopted in Western Europe.3 or 4RelatedA 63/67 or 64/67?match between two men who share the same surname (or a variant) means that they are likely to share a common ancestor within the genealogical time frame. The?common ancestor is probably not extremely recent but is likely within the range of most well-established surname lineages in Western Europe. It is most likely that they matched 24/25, 36/37, or 37/37 on previous Y-DNA tests, and mismatches are within DYS458, DYS459, DYS449, DYS464, DYS576, DYS570, and CDY.5 or 6RelatedA 61/67 or 62/67 match between two men who share the same surname (or a variant) means that they may to share a common ancestor within the genealogical time frame. The common ancestor is probably not recent, but may still be within the range of most well-established surname lineages in Western Europe. It is most likely that they matched 24/25, 36/37 or 37/37 on previous Y-DNA tests. Mismatches are within DYS458, DYS459, DYS449, DYS464, DYS576, DYS570, and CDY.7Probably RelatedA 60/67?match between two men who share the same surname (or a variant) means that they may share a common ancestor within the genealogical time frame. Because of the volatility within some of the markers, this is about the same as being 11/12, and it is most likely that they matched 23/25 or 24/25 or 33-34/37 on previous Y-DNA tests.?If they test additional individuals, they will most likely find that their DNA falls in between the persons who are seven?apart demonstrating relatedness within this family cluster or haplotype. If several or many generations have passed, it is likely that these two lines are related through distant family lines. The only way to confirm the relationship is to test additional family lines and to find where the mutations took place. By testing additional family members, you can find the person in between them. This ‘in betweener’ is essential, and without him, the possibility of a match exists but cannot be confirmed.8 or 9Only Possibly RelatedA 58/67 or 59/67 match between two men who share the same surname (or a variant) means it is possible but unlikely that they share a common ancestor within the genealogical time frame.?If you test additional individuals, you may find the person whose DNA results falls in between the persons that are eight?or nine?apart demonstrating relatedness within this family cluster or haplotype. It is most likely that they did not match 24-25/25 or 35-37/37 in previous Y-DNA tests. If several or many generations have passed, it is possible that they are related through other family members. The only way to confirm or deny the relationship is to test additional family lines and find where the mutation took place. By testing additional family members, you may find the person in between. This ‘in betweener’ is essential. Without him, only the distant possibility of a match exists.10 or 11Not RelatedA 56/67 or 57/67 match between two people means they are not related within the genealogical time frame. The odds greatly favor that the two men have not shared a common male ancestor within thousands of years.>11Not RelatedThe two men are totally unrelated within the genealogical time frame on their direct paternal line. Their shared ancestry is deeply anthropological and dates to the common African heritage of the human race.If two men share a surname, how should the genetic distance at 37 Y-chromosome STR markers be interpreted?In cultures where surnames are passed from father to son, there is additional evidence beyond a DNA match that two men who share a surname are related. Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) test results should be interpreted based on both this information and the actual results.Genetic DistanceRelationshipInterpretation0Very Tightly RelatedA 37/37 match between two men who share a common surname (or variant)?means they share a common male ancestor. Their relatedness is extremely close with the common ancestor predicted, 50% of the time, in five?generations or less and over a 95% probability within eight?generations. Very few people achieve this close level of a match. All confidence levels are well within the time frame that surnames were adopted in Western Europe.1Tightly RelatedA 36/37?match between two men who share a common surname (or variant) indicates a close genealogical match.?Very few people achieve this close level of a match, and it is within the range of most well-established surname lineages in Western Europe. It’s most likely that they matched 24/25 or 25/25 on a previous Y-DNA test, and the mismatch will be found within DYS576, DYS570, or CDY.2RelatedA 35/37?match between two men who share a common surname (or variant)?means they share a common male ancestor. The mismatch is likely within the range of most well-established surname lineages in Western Europe. It is most likely that you matched exactly or closely on previous Y-DNA tests, and the mismatch is within DYS439 or DYS385, DYS389i, 389ii, DYS458, DYS459, DYS449, DYS464, DYS576, DYS570, or CDY.3RelatedA 34/37?match between two men who share a common surname (or variant) means they share a common male ancestor.?The relationship is likely within the range of most well-established surname lineages in Western Europe. It is most likely that they matched exactly or closely on previous Y-DNA tests, and the mismatch is within DYS439 or DYS385, DYS389i, 389ii, DYS458, DYS459, DYS449, DYS464, DYS576, DYS570, or CDY.4?Probably RelatedA 33/37 match between two men who share a common surname (or variant) means they may share a common male ancestor. This relationship should be confirmed with additional testing. The only way to confirm the relationship is to test additional family lines and to find where the mutations took place. By testing additional family lines, you can find the person in between. This ‘in betweener’ is essential for you to find.5Possibly RelatedA 32/37 match between two men who share a common surname (or variant) means that they may be related within the genealogical time frame, but additional evidence is needed to confirm the relationship. If several or many generations have passed since the suspected common ancestor, it is possible that these two men are related. That would require that each line had experienced separate mutations and line would have experienced at least two mutations. The only way to confirm is to test additional family lines and find where the mutations took place. By testing additional family members, you can find the person in between each of you. This ‘in betweener’ becomes essential for you to find, and without him the possibility of a match exists, but further evidence must be pursued.6Not RelatedA 31/37?match between two men who share a common surname (or variant) means that they are not likely to be related within the genealogical time frame. The common surname is a coincidence. If there is a strong family tradition of a relationship, it is distantly possible that these two men are related. That would require that each line had experienced separate mutations and the line would have experienced at least two mutations. The only way to confirm the relationship is to test additional family lines and find where the mutation took place. By testing additional family members, you can find the person in between the two men. This ‘in betweener’ becomes essential for you to find, and without him a genealogical relationship is unlikely.>6Not RelatedThe two men are totally unrelated within the genealogical time frame on their direct paternal line. Their shared ancestry is deeply anthropological and dates to the common African heritage of the human race.If two men share a surname, how should the genetic distance at 25 Y-chromosome STR markers be interpreted?In cultures where surnames are passed from father to son, there is additional evidence beyond a DNA match that two men who share a surname are related. Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) test results should be interpreted based on both this information and the actual results.Genetic DistanceRelationshipInterpretation0RelatedA perfect 25/25 match between two men who share a surname (or variant) means they likely share a common male ancestor within the genealogical time frame.?The probability of a close relationship is very high.1RelatedA 24/25?match between two men who share a surname (or variant) means they likely share a common male ancestor within the genealogical time frame.For most closely related and same surnamed individuals, the mismatch markers are often DYS439, DYS385, DYS389i, DYS389ii, DYS458, DYS459, DYS449, and DYS464, which have shown themselves to move most rapidly.2Probably RelatedA 23/25 match between two men who share a surname (or variant) means they may share a common male ancestor within the genealogical time frame. The probability of a relationship is good. However, your results show mutations and therefore more time between you and the other same surnamed person.For most closely related and same surnamed individuals, the mismatch markers are often DYS439, DYS385, DYS389i, DYS389ii, DYS458, DYS459, DYS449, and DYS464, which have shown themselves to move most rapidly.3Probably Not RelatedA 22/25 match between two men who share a surname (or variant) means they may but are unlikely to share a common male ancestor within the genealogical time frame. The probability of a relationship is poor.If enough time has passed, it is possible that you and another distantly related family members’s line each have had a mutation or perhaps two. The only way to prove that is to test additional family lines and find where the mutation took place. Through further testing, you can find the person in between each of you. This ‘in betweener’ becomes essential for you to find.4Not RelatedA 21/25 match is too far off to be considered related within the genealogical time frame.It is vaguely possible that the rule for “Probably Not Related” applies.?The only way to confirm a?relationship is to test additional family lines and to find where the mutations took place. By testing additional family lines, you can find the person in between. This ‘in betweener’ is essential for you to find. Without him, it is highly unlikely that the match is genealogical.5Not RelatedA 20/25 match between two people means they are not related within the genealogical time frame. The odds greatly favor that the two men have not shared a common male ancestor within thousands of years.6Not RelatedA 19/25 match between two people means they are not related within the genealogical time frame. The odds greatly favor that the two men have not shared a common male ancestor within thousands of years.>6Not RelatedThe two men are totally unrelated within the genealogical time frame on their direct paternal line. Their shared ancestry is deeply anthropological and dates to the common African heritage of the human race.If two men share a surname, how should the genetic distance at 12 Y-chromosome STR markers be interpreted?In cultures where surnames are passed from father to son, there is additional evidence beyond a DNA match that two men who share a surname are related. Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) test results should be interpreted based on both this information and the actual results.Genetic DistanceRelationshipInterpretation0RelatedA perfect 12/12 match?between two men who share a common surname (or variant)?means they likely share a common male ancestor within the genealogical time frame. The combination of these facts demonstrates their relatedness.However, if the surname is one of the most common (trades or towns), i.e., Smith, Tailor, Miller, etc., then we suggest you utilize additional markers to eliminate the possibility of a coincidental surname and genetic match.1Possibly RelatedAn 11/12 match between two men who share a common surname (or variant) means they may share a common male ancestor within the genealogical time frame.?To ensure that the match is authentic, you should utilize additional markers.For most closely related or same surnamed individuals, the mismatch markers are likely to be DYS439, DYS385, DYS389I, or DYS389II.2Probably Not RelatedA 10/12 match between two men who share a common surname (or variant) means they are unlikely to share a common male ancestor within the genealogical time frame. To ensure that the match is authentic, you should utilize additional markers.There are two ways with DNA testing to confirm or deny the relationship. One is to test additional family members to search for a line that shows a mutation that is one?point closer. The other is to test additional markers. Testing additional markers greatly enhances science’s ability to determine relatedness geared towards the most accurate assessment of the number of generations to a shared ancestor. Only by further testing can you find the person in between each of you. This in ‘betweener’ becomes essential for you to find, and in their absence, we feel you are not related.3Not RelatedA 9/12 match is too far off to be considered related within the genealogical time frame. It is unlikely but vaguely possible that the rule for Probably Not Related applies.4Not RelatedAn 8/12 match precludes a relationship within the genealogical time frame. The odds greatly favor that the two men have not shared a common male ancestor within thousands of years.5Not RelatedA 7/12 match between two people means they are not related within the genealogical time frame. The odds greatly favor that the two men have not shared a common male ancestor within thousands of years.>5Not RelatedThe two men are totally unrelated within the genealogical time frame on their direct paternal line. Their shared ancestry is deeply anthropological and dates to the common African heritage of the human race.Expected Relationships with Y-DNA STR MatchesThe expected relationship between you and your Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) match is dependent on both the number of markers you have tested and the genetic distance. The chart below shows the interpretation of your relationship at each testing level (Y-DNA12, Y-DNA37, etc.) for relevant genetic distances.For example, if you and your match have both tested at the Y-DNA37 level and are a 36/37 match, this is a genetic distance of one. You are then considered tightly related.Y-DNA12Y-DNA25Y-DNA37Y-DNA67Y-DNA111InterpretationVery Tightly RelatedN/AN/A000Your exact match means your relatedness is extremely close. Few people achieve this close level of a match. All confidence levels are well within the time frame that surnames were adopted in Western Europe.Tightly RelatedN/AN/A11-21-2Few people achieve this close level of a match. All confidence levels are well within the time frame that surnames were adopted in Western Europe.Related00-12-33-43-5Your degree of matching is within the range of most well-established surname lineages in Western Europe. If you have tested with the Y-DNA12 or Y-DNA25 test, you should consider upgrading to additional STR markers. Doing so will improve your time to common ancestor calculations.Probably Related1245-66-7Without additional evidence, it is unlikely that you share a common ancestor in recent genealogical times (one to six generations). You may have a connection in more distant genealogical times (less than 15 generations). If you have traditional genealogy records that indicate a relationship, then by testing additional individuals you will either prove or disprove the connection.Only Possibly Related23578-10It is unlikely that you share a common ancestor in genealogical times (one?to 15 generations). Should you have traditional genealogy records that indicate a relationship, then by testing additional individuals you will either prove or disprove the connection. A careful review of your genealogical records is also recommended.Not Related346>7>10You are not related on your Y-chromosome lineage within recent or distant genealogical times (one to 15 generations).Y-DNA Genetic DistanceWhen talking about two or more Y-chromosome STR (short tandem repeat) haplotypes, genetic distance is the total number of differences or mutations between two sets of results. In general, it is found by summing the differences between each STR marker.For example, kit B291 and B125 have allele values of 29 and 28 respectively at DYS389II. This is a difference of 1 (29-28= 1). Because this is the only difference in their Y-DNA12 profiles (haplotypes), their genetic distance is 1.Example: Genetic Distance = 1KitSurnameHgDYS393DYS390DYS19DYS391DYS385DYS426DYS388DYS439DYS389|1DYS392DYS389|2B291DidmoeL1223141017-18111211121429B125DidmoeL1223141017-18111211121428B322DitmeeL1222131017-18111210121429In this example, kits B291 and B322 have differences at DYS390, DYS19, and DYS439. The difference for each is calculated (DYS390: 23-22= 1, DYS19: 14-13= 1, DYS439: 11-10= 1). The differences are added together. The total number of differences the Y-DNA12 haplotypes is 3 (1+1+1= 3). Their genetic distance at 12 STR markers is then 3.Example: Genetic Distance = 3KitSurnameHgDYS393DYS390DYS19DYS391DYS385DYS426DYS388DYS439DYS389|1DYS392DYS389|2B291DidmoeL1223141017-18111211121429B125DidmoeL1223141017-18111211121428B322DitmeeL1222131017-18111210121429Y-DNA Step MutationsWhen comparing the results of Y-chromosome STR (short tandem repeat) tests, the difference between the two values at a marker is the Y-DNA genetic distance or the step-mutation count. That is, a one-step mutation means that the count for a single STR has changed by one. A two-step mutation means that the count for a single STR has changed by two.For example, when comparing kit B193 and kit B173, the STR marker DYS393 has changed from 13 to 12. The difference between 13 and 12 is 1 {13-12= 1}. This is considered a single or one-step mutation.Example: One-Step MutationKitSurnameHgDYS393DYS390DYS19DYS391DYS385aDYS385bDYS426DYS388DYS439DYS389|1DYS392DYS389|2B193SyplineI1122414101414111411121128B173SyplineI1132414101414111411121128B132SyplineI113241481414111411121128In this example, kit B193 has a DYS391 value of 10 and kit B132’s value is 8. The difference between 10 and 8 is 2 {10-8= 2}. This is then considered a two-step mutation.Example: Two-Step MutationKitSurnameHgDYS393DYS390DYS19DYS391DYS385aDYS385bDYS426DYS388DYS439DYS389|1DYS392DYS389|2B193SyplineI1122414101414111411121128B173SyplineI1132414101414111411121128B132SyplineI113241481414111411121128Which Y-DNA STR markers does Family Tree DNA test?At Family Tree DNA, we test 111 Y-chromosome DNA short tandem repeat (STR) markers in our standard testing panels. The chart below shows a list of all markers offered in the standard panels.Panel#STR MarkerPanel#STR MarkerPanel 1 (Y-DNA1-12)1DYS393Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)61DYS617Panel 1 (Y-DNA1-12)2DYS390Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)62DYS568Panel 1 (Y-DNA1-12)3DYS19Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)63DYS487Panel 1 (Y-DNA1-12)4DYS391Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)64DYS572Panel 1 (Y-DNA1-12)5-6DYS385a-bPanel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)65DYS640Panel 1 (Y-DNA1-12)7DYS426Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)66DYS492Panel 1 (Y-DNA1-12)8DYS388Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)67DYS565xPanel 1 (Y-DNA1-12)9DYS439Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)68DYS710Panel 1 (Y-DNA1-12)10DYS389IPanel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)69DYS485Panel 1 (Y-DNA1-12)11DYS392Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)70DYS632Panel 1 (Y-DNA1-12)12DYS389IIPanel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)71DYS495Panel 2 (Y-DNA13-25)13DYS458Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)72DYS540Panel 2 (Y-DNA13-25)14-15DYS459a-bPanel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)73DYS714Panel 2 (Y-DNA13-25)16DYS455Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)74DYS716Panel 2 (Y-DNA13-25)17DYS454Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)75DYS717Panel 2 (Y-DNA13-25)18DYS447Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)76DYS505Panel 2 (Y-DNA13-25)19DYS437Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)77DYS556Panel 2 (Y-DNA13-25)20DYS448Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)78DYS549Panel 2 (Y-DNA13-25)21DYS449Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)79DYS589Panel 2 (Y-DNA13-25)22-25DYS464a-b-c-dPanel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)80DYS522Panel 3 (Y-DNA26-37)26DYS460Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)81DYS494Panel 3 (Y-DNA26-37)27Y-GATA-H4Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)82DYS533Panel 3 (Y-DNA26-37)28-29YCA II a-bPanel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)83DYS636Panel 3 (Y-DNA26-37)30DYS456Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)84DYS575Panel 3 (Y-DNA26-37)31DYS607>Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)85DYS638Panel 3 (Y-DNA26-37)32DYS576Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)86DYS462Panel 3 (Y-DNA26-37)33DYS570Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)87DYS452Panel 3 (Y-DNA26-37)34-35CDY a-bPanel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)88DYS445Panel 3 (Y-DNA26-37)36DYS442Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)89Y-GATA-A10Panel 3 (Y-DNA26-37)37DYS438Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)90DYS463Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)38DYS531Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)91DYS441Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)39DYS578Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)92Y-GGAAT-1B07Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)40-41DYF395S1a-bPanel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)93DYS525Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)42DYS590Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)94DYS712Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)43DYS537Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)95DYS593Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)44DYS641Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)96DYS650Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)45DYS472Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)97Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)46DYF406S1Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)98DYS715Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)47DYS511Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)99DYS504Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)48DYS425Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)100DYS513Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)49-50DYS413a-bPanel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)101DYS561Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)51DYS557Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)102DYS552Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)52DYS594Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)103DYS726Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)53DYS436Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)104DYS635Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)54DYS490Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)105DYS587Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)55DYS534Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)106DYS643Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)56DYS450Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)107DYS497Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)57DYS444Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)108DYS510Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)58DYS481Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)109DYS434Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)59DYS520Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)110DYS461Panel 4 (Y-DNA38-67)60DYS446Panel 5 (Y-DNA68-111)111DYS435Note: We also offer all of these STR marker and others in advanced orders where existing customers can order them individually or in any combination. Because markers available as advanced orders may change over time, we recommend customers check the Order Additional DNA Tests page of their myFTDNA account for the list of currently available advanced Y-chromosome STR markers. To access the?Order Additional DNA Tests?page, click the blue?Upgrade?button in the upper-right corner of your myFTDNA account page.2. Y-DNA TiP CalculatorHow do I find out the time to the most recent common ancestor in years?You can convert from generations to years by multiplying the number of generations by an average number of years between generations. In general, you can use an average of 25 years per generation, although the average can vary from family to family.Do all FTDNATiP? calculations offer the ability to add genealogical data? Why don’t you always show it?When using the FTDNATiP? calculator in myFTDNA, the box in which to enter the number of generations appears only when you are not comparing a perfect match, i.e., when there are mutations between the two individuals. This option is not offered to perfect matches. This is because statistically it does not matter. When it is a perfect match, you will get the same percentages moved back by that number of generations.Will testing additional STR markers improve FTDNATiP? calculations?Yes, a higher number of compared Y-DNA STR markers does increase the power and accuracy for Time to Most Common Ancestor (TMRCA) calculation. However, there are?diminishing returns after a certain number of markers. For exact matches who share a surname, this is usually at about 67 markers. Close but not exact matches at the Y-DNA37 or Y-DNA67 level can benefit from upgrading to Y-DNA111.Bob, John, and I have the same Genetic Distance. However, when compared, we have different probabilities for sharing a common ancestor, for example, within eight generations. Why?FTDNATip? uses both the number of mismatches and the mutation rates of individual markers in calculations. This means that although two men may have the same number of mismatches, they may not have the same predicted Time to Most Recent Common Ancestor (TMRCA)How do I tell how closely I am related to a Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) match? What is FTDNATiP??You may use Family Tree DNA’s Time Predictor, FTDNATiP?, to determine how closely you are related to a match. It provides powerful and precise calculations of time to common ancestor estimates by incorporating mutation rates specific to each STR marker. To use FTDNATiP?:Sign in?to your myFTDNA account .Go to your Y-DNA – Matches page.Look for the orange icon?that says TiP next to your match’s name.Click on the icon?to generate a FTDNATiP? report.When will FTDNA publish the mutation values for each marker?Family Tree DNA will post FTDNATiP? mutation rates when the final University of Arizona study is published in the literature.Why did the FTDNATiP? probability become less when we eliminated the possibility of a common ancestor within the past seven generations? It seems that it should increase?These are cumulative probabilities. That is the key to understanding something that initially seems counter intuitive.Let’s use an example for a specific situation of one mismatch in 37 markers. Before inputting your information, the chance of having a common ancestor in the first four?generations is 59.03% and chances for having a common ancestor in the next eight?generations (between generations four?and twelve) is 97.48 minus 59.03 or 38.45% . Now, with the new information that there were no common ancestors in the last seven?generations, the chance of having a common ancestor between seven?generations ago and eleven generations ago is 75.55%. In other words, this new information not only increased the percentage, but also increased the focusing time from four to eight?generations to seven?to eleven?generations.When comparing two individuals, the DNA test shows them to be closely related. However, one has my surname and the other does not. Does the match with the similar surname mean we are more closely related?In many cases, you are more likely to be recently related to a match who also shares your surname. However, there are several reasons why recently related individuals may not share the same surname (undocumented adoption, false paternity). If the match is with one of our basic tests (Y-DNA12 or Y-DNA25), it may make sense to upgrade to a Y-NDA37, Y-DNA67, or Y-DNA111 test to increase the precision or further exclude the probability of a recent common ancestor.Why does the Report page sometimes show a difference between the Genetic Distance and the number of mismatches?This is because genetic distance and mismatches are two different comparisons. FTDNATiP? uses mismatches in its calculations.**FTDNATiP? uses the infinite allele model as opposed to the stepwise model for all STR markers.See also:Genetic DistanceThere are two meanings for?Genetic Distance:Genetic Distance is the number of differences, or mutations, between twosets of results. A genetic distance of zero means there are no differences inthe results being compared against one another, i.e., an exact match. This isthe meaning when comparing Y-chromosome DNA or mitochondrial DNA.For autosomal DNA comparisons, genetic distance may refer to the size of aDNA segment. The genetic distance is then the length of the segment incentiMorgans.How does the infinite allele comparison method work for palindromic markers?For palindromic markers, the infinite allele method counts a difference for two types of changes: a mismatch and a copy number change.Mismatches occur when?the compared markers do not match. For example, the first man might have DYS464 = 14-15-15-16 and the other man might have DYS464 = 14-15-16-18. This counts as a single difference toward the two men’s genetic distance.Palindromic copy number changes are when one male?has more copies of the STR marker than the other male. For example, one man might have DYS464 = 14-15-16-17 and the other might have 14-15-15-16-16-17. This also counts as a single difference toward the two men’s total genetic distance.When two men are compared and they show both a mismatch and a copy number change, it is counted as a genetic distance of two. For example, one might have DYS464 = 14-14-15-16 and the second person DYS464 = 14-15-15-16-16-17.Who is one generation ago?FTDNATiP? calculations start counting generations with the parent generation. Therefore, the father of the person tested is generation one, the paternal grandfather generation two, etc.I have genealogical information. How does FTDNATiP? use it?FTDNATiP? allows you to incorporate your solid genealogical paper trail information on the earliest possible generation of a common ancestor into the DNA match calculations. For example, if you can exclude any chance of a common relative between you and another individual within (say) the past three?generations, you enter this information, and FTDNATiP? computes the time to common ancestry based on both the STR marker pattern and your information that the common ancestor must be at least four?generations back.What is FTDNATiP?? How is it different than other matching tools?FTDNATiP? is a program that predicts the time to the most recent common ancestor for two men based on their Y-chromosome STR matching and STR mutation rates. FTDNATiP? uses specific mutation rates that have been proven to differ across STR markers. This improves the power and precision of estimates of Time to the Most Recent Common Ancestor (TMRCA). The result is a powerful tool for genealogists.I am using FTDNATiP?, and I cannot change the number of generations for some comparisons. What is wrong?For your exact matches, the calculation is not changed by known generations. Therefore, the option to change the number of generations is not available. When using FTDNATiP?, you are only given the option to change the number of generations when the genetic distance between you and your match is at least one.What is the FTDNATiP? Calculator, and how do I use it?FTDNATiP? is a program that incorporates Y-chromosome DNA STR marker specific mutation rates to increase the power and precision of estimates of Time to Most Recent Common Ancestor (TMRCA).3. Y-DNA and SNIP Testing and HaplogroupsAm I able to download my raw data?Family Tree DNA does not have a file format for?Y-chromosome DNA single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) results. However, your raw data, the actual values for each SNP, will be available on the Y-DNA – Haplotree & SNPs page of your myFTDNA account. You may then copy and paste them into an email or into a spreadsheet program such as Excel.Do SNPs ever “mutate back?”Yes. It is possible that a SNP will back mutate (change back). However, SNPs are slow changing. Thus, back mutations are uncommon.Are Y-DNA haplogroups the same as mtDNA haplogroups?No, the names in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplogroups do not correspond with the same names in the Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) haplogroups.How are haplogroups and their subclades named?Y-Chromosome DNA (Y-DNA)?haplogroups and subclades names follow the conventions of the?Y-Chromosome Consortium’s (YCC). The YCC short form names haplogroups with the first letter from the major haplogroup branch. This is followed by a dash and the name of the final?SNP: S-M310, S-M254, S-P57, etc.Note: Both mtDNA and Y-DNA tests provide haplogroup information. The haplogroup nomenclature is different for each.How often does Family Tree DNA update their tree?Family Tree DNA updates the phylogenetic tree when we have substantial evidence that there is a new branch or a new placement for a branch.How does Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) haplogroup prediction work?At Family Tree DNA, a Y-DNA haplogroup prediction is calculated using genetic distance. The calculation finds your most likely haplogroup. The prediction program compares your Y-DNA STR (short tandem repeat) profile to our results database. The program uses the results of exact and near matches.The process balances using a reliable number of Y-DNA STR markers and using a database of confirmed haplogroups that is sufficient in size. The program uses 14 Y-DNA STR markers for haplogroup predictions. These are the first 12 STR markers in all of our Y-DNA tests and two additional markers that we test as check values.Should someone’s haplotype not be close enough to another for use to confidently predict a haplogroup, we confirm their backbone haplogroup placement?according to our SNP Assurance Program.How do I know which SNPs make sense for me to order?Please order SNPs with the help of an expert if you aren’t sure which SNP(s) will benefit your research. Before ordering, you should ask the advice of an expert on your haplogroup and subclade.?We recommend joining an appropiate Y-DNA haplogroup group project. You may then consult the administrators.What is the geographic and historic origin of my Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) haplogroup?The following descriptions provide brief overviews of each haplogroup’s origin and geographic distribution.Haplogroup AHaplogroup A is the first Y-chromosome lineage to diverge, from which all Y-branches are descended. Haplogroup A is restricted to Africa, where it is present in several populations at low frequency but is most commonly found in populations of the Koi and the San tribes of Southern Africa. Early sub-branches of A have been found in central Africa.Haplogroup BHaplogroup B is one of the oldest Y-chromosome lineages in humans. Haplogroup B is found almost exclusively in Africa. This lineage was likely the first to disperse around Africa approximately 90-130 thousand years ago. Haplogroup B appears at low frequency all around Africa but is at its highest frequency in Pygmy populations.Haplogroup CHaplogroup C is found throughout mainland Asia, the south Pacific, New Guinea, Australia, and at low frequencies in Native American populations.Haplogroup DHaplogroup D evolved in Asia. This Haplogroup was later displaced from much of Asia by other colonizing groups but is still present at intermediate frequencies in the aboriginal Japanese and on the Tibetan plateau. It is also found at low frequencies in Mongolian populations and the Altais people of central Asia.Haplogroup EHaplogroup E is an African lineage. It is currently believed that this haplogroup dispersed south from northern Africa with the Bantu agricultural expansion. E is also the most common lineage among African Americans. It is a diverse haplogroup with many branches and is found distributed throughout Africa today. It is also found at a very low frequency in North Africa and the Middle East.Haplogroup FHaplogroup F is the parent haplogroup of branches G through T. F lineages are extremely rare and are distributed in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Future work will better resolve the distribution and historical characteristics of this haplogroup.Haplogroup GHaplogroup G was the first branch of Haplogroup F outside of Africa. G is found mostly in the north central Middle East and the Caucasus, with smaller numbers around the Mediterranean and eastward. Haplogroup G represents one of the first peoples in Europe.Haplogroup HHaplogroup H is nearly completely restricted to India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.Haplogroup IHaplogroup I dates to 23,000 years ago or older. This haplogroup is found throughout Europe, although some branches may be present in low frequencies in Northeast Africa, Central Siberia, the Near East, and the Caucasus regions. Haplogroup I represents one of the first peoples in Europe.Haplogroup JHaplogroup J is found at highest frequencies in the Middle East, west of the Zagros Mountains in Iran to the Mediterranean Sea, and encompassing the entire Arabian Peninsula. It is also found in north African populations where it has been carried by Middle Eastern traders into Europe, central Asia, India, and Pakistan.The Cohen Modal Haplotype (CMH) lineage as well as the presumed lineage of the Prophet Mohammed are found in Haplogroup J-M267.Haplogroup KThe K lineage is presently found at low frequencies in Africa, Asia, and in the south Pacific. One descendent line of this lineage is restricted to aboriginal Australians while another is found at low frequency in southern Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East.Haplogroup LHaplogroup L is found primarily in India and Sri Lanka and has also spread into several Middle Eastern populations (Turks, Saudis, and Pakistanis). It is also found at very low frequencies in Europe.Haplogroup MHaplogroup M is completely confined to the South Pacific. It most probably originated in Melanesia and then spread into Indonesia, Micronesia, and New Guinea.Haplogroup NHaplogroup N is distributed throughout Northern Eurasia and Siberia. It is the most common Y-chromosome type in Uralic speakers (Finns and Native Siberians). It is also found in Mongolia.Haplogroup OHaplogroup O is a branch of the mega-haplogroup K. O originated about 35,000 years ago in Asia. Its branches have spread into Central and East Asia. O has around thirty known subclades.Haplogroup PHaplogroup P is an extremely rare haplogroup at this time. It is the ancestral line to haplogroups Q and T. It is found at low frequency in India, Pakistan, and central Asia.Haplogroup QHaplogroup Q is the lineage that links Asia and the Americas. This lineage is found in North and Central Asian populations as well as native Americans. Among European populations, haplogroup Q is most frequently found in Eastern Europe and Scandinavia. This lineage is believed to have originated in Central Asia and migrated through the Altai/Baikal region of northern Eurasia into the Americas.Haplogroup Q-M3 is the only lineage strictly associated with native American populations. This haplogroup is defined by the presence of the M3 mutation which occurred on the Q lineage 8-12 thousand years ago as the migration into the Americas was underway.Haplogroup RHaplogroup R originated in Central Asia. Most descendants belong to one of two major lineages. They are present at low frequencies across Central Asia, South Asia, and Europe. Haplogroup R-M173 possibly originated in eastern Europe and then migrated eastward into Asia.Haplogroup SHaplogroup S-M230 is an Oceanic lineage and is found primarily in populations in Papau New Guinea with lower frequencies in Melanisia and Indonesia.Haplogroup THaplogroup T is presently found in southern Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East. President Thomas Jefferson, formerly of Wales, was Haplogroup T.Do I have to order a Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) STR test before I take a SNP test?Yes. If you do not have a Y-DNA STR test, you will not be able to view your haplotree information.Alternatively, you may first take the Geno 2.0 test and then transfer your results to Family Tree DNA. ?You will then see your Y-DNA haplotree and transferred, positive SNPs from Geno 2.0. Ordering additional SNPs or an STR test after transferring results from Geno 2.0 is up to you; however,?we recommend consulting a haplogroup project administrator before deciding.How many generations do the Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) SNP tests trace?The Y-DNA tree begins with the common paternal ancestor to all men alive today. Therefore, Y-DNA haplogroups and the Y-DNA haplogroup testing (like Big Y and Geno 2.0) trace forward from our common paternal ancestor who lived over 150,000 years ago into historic times.Can I skip extensive SNP testing and just test for a downstream Advanced Order SNP? If I am positive, may I assume that I also have all the SNPs above it?It is possible to order Advanced SNPs in this way. We advise that you do not unless another closely related male from your surname group has already taken a more advanced SNP test such as the Geno 2.0?or Big Y.The Y-Tree is undergoing rapid changes. Every new result adds to our understanding. Thus, the correct placement of each SNP will change.Your results may add to available knowledge about the SNP. If you have not done extensive SNP testing to establish your location on the tree, your results cannot be used to build the emerging phylogeny.Are Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) SNPs ever related to recent times and genealogy? Are they always for historic periods and more ancient ancestry?Y-chromosome DNA SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) are not always from anthropological or even historic times. Some Y-chromosome DNA SNPs are restricted to a single family that is related in genealogical times (one to 15 generations). These are family SNPs or private SNPs. Other SNPs are slightly older. They represent paternal lineage groups that predate the adoption of a family surname. These are semi-private SNPs.Currently, family SNPs and semi-private SNPs are not common.I believe that I have found an error in the Family Tree DNA Y-DNA Haplotree. Who should I contact?If you have found a problem with our Y-DNA Haplotree, please use our contact form to submit a request to?customer service. Include in your message the details of the problem and the Family Tree DNA kit number(s) that contain SNP testing to support the problem.We cannot fully investigate any issues with SNP placement without compelling evidence from kits (preferably three or more) tested in our labs.?Acceptable testing includes National Geographic’s Genographic Project Geno 2.0 test results as well as Family Tree DNA SNP testing.When comparing genetic distance between people, which is more important to look at SNPs or STRs?SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) offer a definitive answer to a potential relationship. When one person is positive (derived) for a SNP and the other person is negative (ancestral) for the same SNP, they are not related in genealogical times.On the other hand, if both men have matching SNP results, their STR (short tandem repeat) marker results determine how recently they are related.What are the differences between SNPs and STRs?A SNP is a single nucleotide polymorphisms. That means that it is a single small change in your DNA code. These changes are rare. Once they happen, they seldom change back (back mutate).An STR is a short tandem repeat. This is a place in your DNA code where a letter sequence is repeated. For example, AGTAAGTAAGTA is three repeats of the sequence AGTA. STRs have a fast mutation rate. When they change, it is an increase or decrease in the number of repeats. STR values changing back (back mutate) more common.I also tested at another company. They placed me in a different haplogroup. How can this be?The reason for conflicting results depends on the test performed by the other company.They may be providing a haplogroup prediction based on your STR (short tandem repeat) results. The quality and size of their database limits their prediction’s accuracy. The results from one of our SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) tests are definitive.It may also be that the other company did some SNP testing, but it was not at the same level (depth).What is the difference between a Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) SNP test and Family Tree DNA’s Y-DNA STR tests?The Y-DNA SNP testing provides information on the deeper ancestry for a Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) paternal lineage. Depending on the branch of the Y-DNA tree to which the person tested belongs, this may relate to ancestry beyond the genealogical period.Family Tree DNA’s Y-DNA STR (short tandem repeat) tests are more relevant to recent times and genealogy.Is a Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) SNP test medical?No. ?Y-DNA SNP testing is not designed to give medical information.I have limited DNA testing funds. What’s my best strategy? Should I upgrade to more markers or do SNP testing?The answer to this depends on your personal interest. If you are interested in your ancestry that goes beyond where traditional paper trails end, you should focus on SNP testing. If, however, your only interest is in the most recent generations (one to 15) of your family history, testing additional STR markers is a good investment.I have already taken a Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) STR test. Why do I need to take a SNP test? What more can it show me?Ordering a Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) SNP test will tell you more about your deeper ancestry. That is, the historic migrations of your direct paternal ancestors. This extends what you have learned about your ancestry from one of our Y-DNA STR tests. It enhances it.If Y-chromosome haplogroups change, does that mean my results are wrong or inconclusive?No. Y-chromosome DNA SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) test results are definitive. They are not subject to change.It is the name of the haplogroup to which you belong that has changed. This change reflects advances in scientific understanding.What was the first version of the Y Chromosome Consortium’s phylogenetic tree?The first version of the Y Chromosome Consortium’s (YCC) tree was the YCC 2002 tree. The University of Arizona’s YCC website has additional information about the YCC 2002 tree.When should I take a Y-DNA haplogroup test?The need to test for your Y-Chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) haplogroup depends on your research interests. Taking an extended Y-DNA SNP test such as the Geno 2.0 test is a good idea for those interested in their ancient ancestry and prehistoric migrations. It is also of interest to those interested in historic events. There is potential for haplogroup subbranches to become more useful for genealogical work.Some Y-DNA subclade markers, SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms), are restricted to a single family that is related in genealogical times (1 to 15 generations). These are family SNPs or private SNPs. Other SNPs are slightly older. They represent paternal lineage groups that predate the adoption of a family surname. These are semi-private SNPs. Both private and semi-private SNPs are uncommon.On the Y-DNA – Haplotree page, what do the letters and numbers in the Haplogroup Information box mean?We show the SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) results from our Y-DNA SNP tests (transferred Geno 2.0, Advanced SNP, Backbone, or old Deepclade) under the Haplotree tool in the Haplogroup Information box. The names of the SNPs are numbers prefixed with a letter or set of letters. These most often indicate the research lab that discovered it.Research Labs’ PrefixesDesignationResearch LabIMS-JSTInstitute of Medical Science-Japan Science and Technology Agency, JapanLThe Family Tree DNA Genomic Research Center, Houston, Texas, United States of AmericaMStanford University, California, United States of AmericaPUniversity of Arizona, Arizona, United States of AmericaPAGE/PAGES/PSWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Massachusetts, United States of AmericaPKBiomedical and Genetic Engineering Laboratories, Islamabad, PakistanUUniversity of Central Florida, Florida, United States of AmericaVLa Sapienza, Rome, ItalyCTSWelcome Trust Sanger Institute,?Cambridge, UKFFudan University, People’s Republic of ChinaPFDipartimento di Zoologia e Genetica Evoluzionistica, Università di Sassari, ItalyZ and DFVarious members of the Genetic Genealogy community, WorldwideThe research group names the SNP by assigning it the letter or set of letters that represents their lab. The team then assigns a sequential number to the SNP.For example, the University of Arizona are prefixes SNPs they discover with the letter P. Thus, P109 is the 109th SNP named by the University of Arizona.In addition, the SNP M253 is the 253rd SNP that the research group at Stanford University has named.After each SNP, you will see either a plus (+) or a minus (-) sign. The plus sign means that you are positive for the SNP. The minus sign means that you are negative for the SNP.For example, your results show L22+, M253+, P109-; you are positive for the M253 and L22 SNPs and negative for the P109 SNP.Note that some SNPs discovered in early population genetic research may have prefixes related to their location on the Y-Chromosome or other genetic features. These include LINE, LLY, MEH, RPS, and SRY.On Public Project Websites, why are some haplogroups shown in red? Why are other haplogroups shown in green?On?Public Project Websites, a?Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA)?haplogroup is shown in red when it has been predicted using our haplogroup determination program. A Y-DNA haplogroup is shown in green when it has been confirmed with a test such as our Backbone haplogroup test, our old Y-DNA Deepclade test, or transferred results from the?Geno 2.0?test.Should I test my Y-chromosome (Y-DNA) haplogroup?If your interest is in your ancient ancestry and historic migrations then an extensive Y-DNA SNP test for your haplogroup such as the Geno 2.0 test is appropriate.Note that only one person in your family group needs to take one of these tests. All who share a recent paternal lineage (one to 15 generations) will also share the same Terminal SNP branch.See also:What is the SNP Assurance Program? What is a backbone test?In order to provide our customers with the highest level of haplogroup confidence, Family Tree DNA provides a?SNP Assurance program (beginning with?batch?173). If a person’s Y-DNA haplogroup cannot be predicted with 100% confidence, the SNP Assurance Program will test your sample with our Backbone SNP test for?FREE. Specifically, if we cannot predict a person’s Y-DNA haplogroup with sufficient confidence that they can join the National Geographic’s Genographic Project, we will automatically perform a Backbone SNP test in order to identify the haplogroup assignment. Backbone tests take about 6-8 weeks from the time they are orderedWe test a panel of SNPs in order to determine your placement on the haplogroup tree. The positive value for the SNP that determines your haplogroup assignment is reported on the?Y-DNA – Haplotree & SNPs?page of your?myFTDNA?account.The following depth of haplogroup prediction or confirmation is guaranteed for all Y-DNA tests.SNP NameRS IDPositionYCC-HaplogroupM91rs2032651ChrY:20366926A-M91M181rs2032599ChrY:13360948B-M181RPS4Y-711 AKA M130rs35284970ChrY:2794854C-RPS4Y711M174rs2032602ChrY:13463674D-M174M96rs9306841ChrY:20238386E-M96M2rs3893 and rs9785941ChrY:12606577E-M2M35.1-ChrY:20201091E-M35.1M89rs2032652ChrY:20376701F-M89M201rs2032636ChrY:13536923G-M201M69rs2032673ChrY:20353446H-M69M170rs2032597ChrY:13357186I-M170M253rs9341296ChrY:13532101I-M253P37.2-ChrY:13001692I-P37.2M223-ChrY:20176695I-M223M304rs13447352ChrY:21159241J-M304M267rs9341313ChrY:21151206J-M267M172rs2032604ChrY:13479028J-M172M9rs3900ChrY:20189645K-M9M20rs3911ChrY:20192842L-M20M106rs2032611ChrY:20325812M-M106M231rs9341278ChrY:13979118N-M231M175rs2032678ChrY:14018100O-M175M45rs2032631ChrY:20327175P-M45M242rs8179021ChrY:13527976Q-M242M3rs3894ChrY:17605757Q-M3M207rs2032658ChrY:14091377R-M207M173rs2032624ChrY:13535818R-M173M198rs2020857ChrY:13540146R-M198M269rs9786153ChrY:21148755R-M269M124-ChrY:20223889R-M124M230rs13447374ChrY:13540161S-M230M70rs2032672ChrY:20353269T-M70 I tested before you implemented the SNP Assurance Program. My haplogroup is not predicted. Will you confirm my haplogroup?If you tested before we implemented the SNP Assurance Program, and the?Y-DNA – Haplotree & SNPs?page of your?myFTDNA?account shows your haplogroup as unpredicted, then we will run the Backbone SNP test for you. Please use the?feedback?form to send your request to our customer service.What is the difference between a Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) haplogroup project and a surname or paternal lineage project?Both types of group projects look at the direct paternal lineage. However, they have different starting points.A?Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA)?haplogroup project starts from the founding of a particular haplogroup or subclade. It traces that lineage forward.On the other hand, a surname group project starts with men who share a surname (or variant). The surname project traces men back to a common ancestor.In many ways, the two types of project support and augment each other.What is a Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) haplogroup project?A Y-DNA haplogroup project is a group project based on the results of?Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA)?tests. It?is dedicated to studying one haplogroup or one haplogroup’s subclades in all times and places.What does a Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) haplogroup tell us?Haplogroups and their subclades (branches) mark human migrations. Thus, learning about haplogroups can tell you about your ancestors’ history and travels.What is a Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) haplogroup?Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA)?haplogroups are the major branches on the human paternal family tree. Each haplogroup has many subbranches known as subclades.Big Y TestingBig YThe Big Y product is a Y-chromosome?direct paternal lineage test. We have designed it to explore deep ancestral links on our common paternal tree. Big Y tests thousands of known branch markers as well as millions of places where there may be new branch markers. It is intended?for expert users with an interest in advancing science.It may also be of great interest to genealogy researchers of a specific lineage. It is not, however, a test for matching you to one or more men with the same surname in the way of our Y-DNA37 and other tests.You may learn more about the methodology and science behind the Big Y test by reading our Big Y white paper?published August 28, 2014. Who may order the Big Y product?Any male Family Tree DNA customer with a complete Y-STR test may order the Big Y product. However, we do ask that you consider carefully before ordering.A high quality sample is needed for Big Y. Therefore, the person tested should be willing and able to provide a new DNA sample if needed.All customers are strongly encouraged to seek the guidance of a Y-DNA haplogroup project administrator before ordering.Most results interpretation for Big Y will come from volunteer project administrators, including Y-DNA haplogroup administratorsHow do I order the Big YAny male Family Tree DNA customer with a complete Y-STR test may order the Big Y product through their myFTDNA account. To do so:Sign in to your myFTDNA account.Click the blue?Upgrade button in the upper-right corner of the page.Look for the?Father’s Line?section, and click the?blue price?button, which will open the shopping cart for you to complete your order.I ordered Big Y to get my result for a specific SNP. Why didn't I get a result for that one SNP? Due to the exploratory nature of Big Y, we cannot guarantee results for specific, known SNPs because results will vary from sample to sample. Single specific SNPs are better ordered as such.What are the technical details of the Big Y productThe Big Y product uses next-generation sequencing to reveal genetic variations across the Y chromosome:Targeted Non-recombining Y-DNA sequencing.Illumina HiSeq 200.55X to 80X average coverage.Around 11.5 to 12.5 million base-pairs of reliably mapped positions of non-recombining Y chromosome.Analyzed using Arpeggi genome analysis technology for improved variant calls.All samples are processed in-house using our custom laboratory methods and informatics. Your sample never leaves our company and is never shared with outside vendors..How soon will I have my Big Y resultsWe process samples in first come first serve order. If a sample doesn’t pass quality control, we will place it in the next set of results to be processed, as long as we have enough DNA sample. If we require an additional sample, we will send a new test kit and place the new sample in the first set to be processed when it is returned. We typically have an?8 to 10 week average turn around time from date of sample receDo I need to submit a new sample? How much DNA sample is used?In many cases, we can use your existing stored DNA sample. If there is not enough sample available, we will send you a new collection kit to the address listed for the kit in myFTDNA. For those who wish to order a test for an individual who cannot provide another sample, please contact customer service for options.Who will analyse my results for new SNPSs?Sequencing is performed at our state-of-the-art genomics lab, and the data is analyzed by our genome informatics team.Will my positive and negative SNP results from the Big Y be part of my Haplotree page?Your positive results and relevant negative results from the Big Y test will be shown as a results table on a Big Y page that may be downloaded to any spreadsheet program. We are currently working on integrating the Big Y results with our Haplotree tool on myFTDNA page.What distinguishes Big Y from other Y-DNA SNP testing, like Geno2.0?Both Big Y and Geno 2.0 test for thousands of paternal lineage branch markers (SNPs). Unlike Geno 2.0 and related technologies, Big Y is able to detect new branch markers that are unique to your paternal lineage, surname, or even you.Geno 2.0 is microarray chip based and programmed for specific SNPs. Big?Y is a next-generation sequence-based test.How are Big Y raw results formatted?The VCF and BED files will be available for download on your results page.Will you report Y_STR results from Big Y testing?No, we will not. ................
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