ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Y-STR

Okay kiddo, let me explain Y-STR like you are five years old.

Do you know what DNA is? It's like a set of instructions that tells your body how to grow and function. DNA also has some unique parts called chromosomes - they're like tiny, twisted-up shoelaces inside each cell of our body. Most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes in their bodies.

Now, there's one type of chromosome that only boys have, and it's called a Y chromosome. Girls have an X chromosome instead. The Y chromosome has some special DNA markers on it, which are called Y-STRs or Y-Short Tandem Repeats.

These Y-STRs are like little patterns that repeat themselves over and over again on the Y chromosome. Scientists can study these patterns to learn more about someone's ancestry and family history, especially on the father's side of the family.

For example, if someone has a Y-STR pattern that matches with someone else's pattern, it suggests that they might be related through their father or paternal grandfather. Scientists can also use Y-STR testing to identify missing persons or to solve crimes.

So, in summary, Y-STR is a special type of DNA pattern found only on the Y chromosome, which can help scientists learn more about someone's ancestry and family history on the father's side of the family.