Procedures
To request our DNA Profiling service, simply fill out our online order form or call 1-888-362-2592. One of our caring, knowledgeable case managers will evaluate your situation based on the information you provide and verify the test options that are best for you.
Collection Appointments
After we receive your information, we will send you a home collection kit (home test option) or schedule your sample collection appointment at a local laboratory or clinic that is convenient for you (legal test option).
Patient Identification for Chain of Custody
A legal test requires a Chain of Custody documentation process in order to make test results legally admissible (accepted by courts and other government agencies). Those tested for their DNA profiles will be asked to do the following when they come to their appointments:
- Present government-issued identification for the adults
- Present one of the following for minors: birth certificate, social security card, crib card, or shot record
- Be photographed and fingerprinted
- Complete a Client Identification and Consent Form (the minor’s consent form should be signed by the legal guardian)
Sample Collection
DNA samples are collected using buccal swabs. The sample collector rubs a cotton-like swab against the inside of the patient’s cheek to collect loose cells. In a legal test, the sample collector then packages the samples and seals them with tamper tape.
When our laboratory receives the samples, we first check for any evidence of tampering to make sure that the chain of custody has been strictly observed.
DNA Test in Our Laboratory
In our laboratory, we extract DNA from the swabs and use the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) together with 16 primers to create a “map” of each person’s DNA, called a DNA profile. The 16 primers we use include the 13 CODIS markers, a set of markers used worldwide to identify individuals.
These markers target specific locations in the DNA (called loci), and PCR makes billions of copies of each so that we can measure the sizes of these loci. Each locus is present in two forms called alleles—one inherited from the biological mother and one inherited from the biological father. The result of the DNA test is a DNA Profile Report, which lists the sizes of the alleles in each locus.
Results
You may choose to receive your DNA Profile Report via fax, first class mail, or courier. Home DNA profile reports are sent via email as soon as the laboratory releases them (9 working days of sample receipt).
For legal test reports, We send a hard copy of the results via first class within 9 days after we receive your samples in the lab. To request a copy of your results via fax or courier, you may call your case manager at 1-888-362-2592 or go to http://www.paternity-answers.com and click on the “Case Status” button on the homepage. |
