DNA Banking

    DNA banking is the secure storage of a person's genetic material. DNA banking is much like financial banking. A person makes one or more deposits. The DNA is safely stored until withdrawals are made. Withdrawals are largely for the purpose of DNA testing.

      DNA banking at PreventionGenetics is relatively simple, but does involve a few essential steps. To begin the process, print out and complete the DNA Banking Agreement which is available from this web site. You will also need to complete the online Depositor Information Form. Full instructions and much more information about the banking process are included within the DNA Banking Agreement

    PreventionGenetics believes that all people should bank their DNA, regardless whether it is done with us or at another institution. Reasons for DNA banking are listed below. For extra security, it may be wise to bank your DNA at two or more trusted institutions.

    DNA is most commonly isolated from blood cells, but can also be isolated from cheek cells or cells from just about any other part of the body. For a short basic primer on human genetics see Human Genetics Principles in a Nutshell.   See also the section of our web site on genetics Education.

    DNA can be banked any time during a person's life, but it is most convenient to bank DNA at birth. After the baby's umbilical cord has been clamped and cut, blood can be drawn from the cord without any pain or possible harm to the baby. The cord (and the placenta to which the cord is attached) are typically discarded after birth.

    DNA banking is particularly urgent for the elderly and the terminally ill. Once a person is buried or cremated, it is difficult or impossible to obtain a DNA sample.

    PreventionGenetics is dedicated to the highest ethical standards (see company Genetic Ethical Principles). We work hard each and every day to earn your trust.

    The cost of most DNA banking at PreventionGenetics is $70.00 per person. This is a one time fee. There are no annual storage fees. For this price, we will isolate and quantitate your DNA, store it at two or more separate locations, and provide withdrawal services. We will attempt to retain the DNA indefinitely. Discounts are available for families that bank their DNA together.

    PreventionGenetics goes to great lengths to make certain that your DNA is stored safely and securely. Your DNA will be carefully extracted and quantitated. Your DNA will be stored in multiple freezers at two or more separate locations with multiple monitoring and backup systems. Sufficient DNA will be banked for many DNA tests.

    

  1. To benefit descendants and other family members. This is probably the most important reason to bank your DNA. Testing of your own DNA greatly improves the efficiency and accuracy of DNA testing in your relatives. Banking your DNA is a simple, but important legacy that you can leave your family. Anyone who, for example, saves for retirement or prepares a will should strongly consider banking their DNA.

  2. To provide a ready source of material for clinical DNA testing. It is much cheaper to make a withdrawal of banked DNA than it is to extract a new sample. In addition, PreventionGenetics offers an ever increasing array of clinical DNA tests. If testing is performed at PreventionGenetics, then there will be no withdrawal or shipping charges.

  3. To provide source material for the identification of remains and for cases of amnesia, child abduction, or the switching of babies. These situations are rare, but they do occur. Banking your DNA greatly increases the chances of correct identification. This is why the U.S. military banks DNA from all service members.

  4. To provide material for future DNA tests that are not yet available. The technology for DNA testing is continually improving. By banking your DNA now, you make available the input material for new high tech tests even after your death.