| Although much has been discovered in recent | | | | A number of other discoveries were made in |
| decades to improve genetic testing, the history of | | | | genetic testing history during the 1960's and |
| genetics is really a rather old science and has | | | | 1970's and in 1975 a method to isolate and |
| been studied for many years. In this article we | | | | analyze DNA fragments was discovered which is |
| are going to give a brief history of genetics and | | | | now known as the "Southern blot analysis" and is |
| genetic testing but if you are interested in a more | | | | used in genetic testing. |
| comprehensive history of genetic testing and | | | | In 1983 the PCR method of DNA analysis was |
| genetics please see our recommended reading list | | | | discovered by the Cetus Corporation and is now |
| below. | | | | a popular method of DNA analysis in genetic |
| Cells were first discovered in plant and animal | | | | testing. These techniques led to more disorders |
| tissue in 1665 and in 1839 cells containing nuclei | | | | being linked to genetics including cystic fibrosis, |
| were recognized as the building blocks of life. It | | | | Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Huntington |
| was also recognized that cells could only be | | | | Chorea. |
| formed through the dividing of other cells and so | | | | Today genetic testing is becoming more and |
| a basic foundation was laid for the future study | | | | more popular and the history of genetic testing |
| of genetics. | | | | has laid the foundation for modern analysis into |
| Between 1879 and 1882 Walther Flemming | | | | diseases as well as paternity and ancestry DNA |
| discovered chromosomes or DNA which is the | | | | testing. |
| subject of study in genetics and so began the | | | | Although the last few decades have seen the |
| history of real genetic testing. | | | | rapid advancement of the history of genetic |
| In 1902 inherited diseases were first linked to | | | | testing, the study of genetics began many years |
| chromosomes and following this a number of | | | | previously and what was learned in the early |
| other genetic disorders were found and described | | | | years of this science have helped to make |
| by various geneticists. | | | | genetic testing as we know it today possible. The |
| Around 1950 a number of discoveries were made | | | | history of genetic testing has meant that today |
| regarding the nature of DNA including the ratio of | | | | many disorders can be diagnosed or predicted |
| the DNA bases and the fact that they worked in | | | | through the use of DNA testing and has been a |
| complimentary pairs as well as the structure of | | | | benefit to many. |
| the DNA molecule. | | | | |