1. Why store DNA?
2. How is DNA Archive™ better than other kinds of DNA banking?
3. How does DNA Direct ensure that my DNA sample isn’t mixed up with someone else’s?
4. How long can I keep DNA Archive before it expires?
5. Where’s the best place to store my DNA Archive samples?
6. How many genetic tests can be done with a DNA Archive sample?
7. Can you extract DNA from other samples like clothing or stored blood?
8. My mother just passed away and we want to preserve her DNA. Can we use DNA Archive for that?

1. Why store DNA?

There are many reasons people choose to store DNA today, including plans for future medical testing (when costs come down or new tests are available), future ancestry and genealogy testing, and as insurance should identity or family relationship testing become necessary. Read more: Reasons to Store DNA

2. How is DNA Archive™ better than other kinds of DNA banking?

Unlike traditional DNA banking, DNA Archive does not require yearly maintenance fees for freezing and storage and you don’t have to use a DNA bank, where conditions may vary or access to your sample may be complicated. With DNA Archive, you receive 3 home storage samples that will keep at room temperature in a safe, dry location of your choosing. You have complete control over your DNA. Whenever you want to have your DNA analyzed, your sample is ready to go. DNA Archive is trustworthy, private, safe, convenient, and affordable. Read more: How It Works.

3. How does DNA Direct ensure that my DNA sample isn’t mixed up with someone else’s?

Each DNA Archive kit has a unique identifier that stays with your sample from beginning to end. This unique identifier is attached to your order and your sample collection kit. It stays on your sample through the lab process. When you receive your DNA Archive storage samples, each tube is labeled with this identifier, so that you can be assured the sample is yours.

4. How long can I keep DNA Archive before it expires?

You should be able to store your DNA Archive samples in dry form indefinitely. World-class laboratories at Harvard and the University of California campuses have successfully stored DNA using Biomatrica's SampleMatrix technology.

5. What is the best place to store my DNA Archive samples?

You can store DNA Archive samples safely anywhere at room temperature and in dry conditions. Some locations that you may want to consider include safe deposit box, in-home safe, or a secure drawer or cabinet in an area of your home that is less susceptible to humidity. You may also decide to divide your samples and store them in separate locations. For example, parents may want give a sample to each of their children.

6. How many genetic tests can be done with a DNA Archive sample?

This depends on the specific genetic test and the amount of DNA needed for it. With each DNA Archive kit, you receive 3 individual samples of your DNA. This is enough DNA to run a test that requires a large amount of DNA, such as BRCA1/2 testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer risk which sequences two large genes, BRCA1 and BRCA 2.

7. Can you extract DNA from other samples like clothing or stored blood?

At this time, we are only offering DNA extraction from cheek cell samples that are collected using cheek swabs.

8. My mother just passed away and we want to preserve her DNA. Can we use DNA Archive for that?

Yes. DNA Archive can be used to preserve samples from someone who has recently died, as long as they have not been embalmed or cremated. Since time is of the essence, it's important to notify your funeral director of your wish to collect a DNA sample now. DNA Direct can overnight ship the sample collection kit to you, and your funeral director can easily collect the sample with the non-invasive cheek swab. (See DNA Archive kit)