Robert, Correct about the male testing being done using the Y-chromosome. The female test uses the mitochondrial DNA that we all have. We get our mitochondrial DNA from our mother, and she got hers from her mother, etc. Both males and females can have their female lineage tested, but it is problematic for genealogical purposes. The reason being that the female's surname changes with each generation. Most Y-chromosome DNA goes with the family name gotten from the father. I say most, because there are instances of illigitimaticy and adoption. I am participating in the Y-DNA testing of people with the surname of Campbell. My g-g-grandfather was John D. Campbell (1812-1890) of Lincoln/Catawba County. I have a third cousin who was also tested, and we vary by one marker in thirty-seven. Our DNA is close to some Campbells whose ancestors were from Pennsylvania. The biggest problem is that a lot of our ancestors were poor, and the poor don't leave much of a paper trail. Perhaps someday we will be able to tie our families together. If there are questions or comments, don't hesitate to contact me directly. Jim Campbell My home page (just my lines, not everyone) http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~jecralnc My GEDCOM (everyone, except the living, in my database) http://worldconnect.genealogy.rootsweb.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?db=jecralnc Robert and Sue Carpenter wrote: >Our test is the Y chromosone test which applies to males only. There is a X >test for females. I am not as familiar with that test except that it is >done. > >