There are several ways to take DNA samples, many of which are minimally invasive and painless. You may need to know your child's DNA, for example, to ascertain paternity, or for other personal or judicial reasons. You can buy DNA test kits that are extremely easy to use and provide complete instructions for packaging and shipping to authorized analysis centers. The process of collecting DNA from saliva, hair and nails is quite simple and can be done using a few simple household items.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Mouth Mucosal Cells / Saliva Buffer
Step 1. Avoid eating or drinking any liquids other than water and do not smoke for at least 1 hour before taking the test
Step 2. Put on rubber gloves
Step 3. Rinse your mouth with warm water
If the sample is being taken on a baby, allow him to drink water from his bottle before testing.
Step 4. Take a sterile swab from the package and be careful not to touch the end
Step 5. Rub the inside of the cheeks, under the tongue and behind the lips with the sterile swab
Step 6. Set it aside without getting touched by anything and let it dry for at least 1 hour
Step 7. Cut the end of the swab sufficiently so that the swab can be placed in a plastic bag or other sterile container
Step 8. Follow the packing and shipping instructions if using a DNA kit
Method 2 of 3: Hair
Step 1. Put on the rubber gloves
Step 2. Tear off 10 or 20 hairs from the head while still holding the follicle attached
Step 3. Do not pick hair from a brush, comb or clothing
Step 4. Avoid touching the end of the follicle
Step 5. Put your hair in a plastic bag or paper bag (do not lick the bag)
Step 6. Follow the packing and shipping instructions if using a DNA kit
Method 3 of 3: Hand / Toe Nails
Step 1. Clean your nails thoroughly with soap and water immediately before taking
Step 2. Wear rubber gloves and avoid contact with other possible sources of DNA, such as saliva, if the test is done on another person
Step 3. Use a new nail clipper or completely sterilize a used one by boiling it in water for 5 minutes
Step 4. Cut the nails of at least one hand; it would be better than both because there would be more material for DNA extraction
Step 5. Trim your nails by standing on top of a sterile container, such as a plastic bag or envelope that they will be placed or shipped in
Step 6. Follow the packing and shipping instructions if using a DNA kit
Advice
- It is always a good idea to have a DNA test kit, as it contains complete instructions and consent forms. Consent forms must be included with DNA samples if collection is performed on a third person. If the sampling comes from a child or from another person who is unable to authorize the collection, it could be the parent or legal guardian who gives the consent. If you are unable to obtain a DNA test kit, check the laws of your country as collecting DNA samples may be a procedure that only authorized personnel can perform.
- DNA that needs to be kept dry is best stored in paper; plastic retains moisture and can damage DNA. Make sure that if you have to store anything in plastic, it is completely dry before sealing it.
