Norma, I think one type of test (mDNA?) tests for the female line, but I believe this test also might work with respect to a son at the end (the modern end) of the line. I think this test presents more practical challenges, because it has to be followed through with suspected genetic links, as opposed to working "backwards" off a paternally-based family name (such as "Burns"). If I understand correctly, the Burns test being offered is just for the paternal (Burns) line, and so would work only for males with a Burns father, and following back through an unbroken Burns paternal line. It is important not to read too much, or too little, into DNA tests, even for people eligible for the study. I don't know about Family Tree DNA, but some of the companies coordinating the tests seem, IMHO, to hype them up at least a little too much and to suggest that they generally reveal more than what they really do. But they can be a great tool, used together with the rest of the genealogical arsenal. Dave Kearney ----- Original Message ----- From: Norma R Farmilo To: BURNS-L@rootsweb.com Sent: Saturday, September 04, 2004 1:53 PM Subject: Re: [BURNS] Burns DNA Hi Carolyn, To the first question, yes, it has to be the male line for this study. The study is just beginning so there are a lot of questions and no answers yet. Go to: http://www.ftdna.com/public/burns The goals there are my goals. They can be added to. Have you checked my website? http://www.angelfire.com/nf/burnscharles/index.html There is a way of testing through the female line. This, too, must be a straight female line. How far back are you in your Burns line. I'll help you if I can. Norma ----- Original Message ----- From: <Csroberts8@cs.com> To: <BURNS-L@rootsweb.com> Sent: Saturday, September 04, 2004 10:14 AM Subject: Re: [BURNS] Burns DNA > Norma, > > Does it have to be a male Burns to have the DNA test. If I am born a Burns my > DNA want work? Is that how I understand this works? > > How do I get more information on this test and what is the results? If no > other family member has done a DNA a test what does that mean for my test? > > Carolyn Sue > > > ============================== > Gain access to over two billion names including the new Immigration > Collection with an Ancestry.com free trial. Click to learn more. > http://www.ancestry.com/rd/redir.asp?targetid=4930&sourceid=1237 > ______________________________