By now, most people know at least a little bit about the power of genetic testing. DNA analysis can be used to prove everything from paternity to criminality. But DNA testing services can also be used to protect genetic material from a loved one for potential use in the future. Let’s take a closer look at DNA preservation and why this process might play an important role in the services you provide at your facility.

What is DNA Preservation?

When you think of preserving DNA, you might picture the steps we can take with lab equipment and other procedures to ensure that genetic material doesn’t become damaged prior to testing. This is certainly important, but DNA preservation actually refers to specific procedures that are performed when genetic material needs to be stored for the long term.

Also known as DNA banking, this process involves sample collection from an individual. DNA is extracted from the cells that are collected before being purified and put into a concentrated form. From there, the DNA is preserved at room temperature for as long as necessary. Because the DNA will not degrade over time, it can be used at some point down the line for genetic testing.

How is DNA Preservation Used?

Although biotechnology can be traced back to 1919, it wasn’t until 50 years later that the first successful recombinant DNA experiment was performed. Now, we can use DNA analysis to address a number of concerns. One of the most important applications for this type of genetic preservation is healthcare testing. This genetic preservation can provide family members with medical insight, especially as it pertains to serious conditions like dementia, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and others. By pursuing DNA banking, future relatives can learn more about their potential health risks.

Preserving one’s DNA can have other benefits, as well. In the future, this genetic material can be tested to determine ancestry or comparative identity. Experts believe there will be many other applications for preserved DNA in the future, as well. Being able to collect an individual’s DNA could hold the key to medical mysteries and other biotechnical puzzles that currently remain unsolved.

How Can I Improve Preservation Capabilities At My Facility?

Ultimately, DNA banking can allow us to obtain medical or identifiable information from an individual even after they have passed on. Because public awareness surrounding DNA testing has only grown in recent years, the demand for services like these will continue to increase. As such, you may find that you need additional resources to provide these kinds of testing services. We’re here to help. To learn more about our analysis and preservation products, please contact ITSI BioSciences today.