DNA preservation is the best option for families who are looking for a meaningful way to memorialize and remember their loved one. Unlike ashes, hair or other traditional keepsake items, DNA contains the entire genetic ‘blueprint’ of an individual. Preserving DNA gives families an opportunity to capture all this information and establish a connection that will last forever.
101 Syndicate Ave N. Suite 2B , Thunder Bay , Ontario, P7C 3V4, Canada
1 807 577 0989
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Answers to all your questions
FAQ
Why Preserve DNA?
Living DNA can use post mortem samples if Lazarus DNA specially treats them first.
Keep a Physical Record of your Family Tree
DNA contains valuable information about our ancestral past and family roots. When a person passes away, this information is often lost forever. Banked DNA will last indefinitely inside the sealed vial, allowing families to pass their genetic make-up down to future generations.
Document Hereditary Diseases that run in the Family
Approximately 75% of all known diseases can be traced back to our genetic makeup. Many of the genetic mutations that cause cancers and other hereditary diseases have been identified. Banking your family’s DNA is an important step in tracing the root cause of hereditary diseases and paves the way for targeted treatments in the future.
Store DNA for Future Testing
Banked DNA lasts indefinitely and can be accessed for testing at any time. A wide range of genetic tests are currently available for everything from ancestry testing to disease predisposition testing and more are yet to come.
About DNA Banking
What is DNA banking?
DNA banking is the secure preservation and long-term storage of an individual’s genetic material. Banked DNA will remain intact for potential future use.
Why is DNA banking important?
DNA contains valuable information about a family’s health risks, medical conditions and ancestry. By preserving DNA, you are ensuring that this precious information is readily accessible to future generations. With rapid advances in genetic testing, genetics will play an increasingly important role in understanding a family’s disease risks, allowing families to be proactive in managing their health.
Why is DNA preservation an important consideration when planning a funeral?
At death, the information coded in a person’s DNA begins to degrade. DNA Banking is the best option for families who wish to preserve the genetic legacy of their loved ones and also create opportunities for genetic testing if ever required by future generations to understand the source and nature of diseases within the family.
Can DNA preservation be done after cremation or embalming?
The cremation process destroys DNA. It is critical to perform a collection prior this procedure. If the body has been embalmed, DNA collection is still possible. Lazarus DNA has the expertise to deal with the embalming process and samples can be collected in the same manner.
How can banked DNA be used in the future?
DNA can be used for a wide range of genetic testing applications including disease testing, health risk analysis, identity testing and ancestry testing. With rapid advances in genetic testing technology, the number of diseases that can be identified through genetic testing is steadily increasing.
How can DNA banking benefit the health of my children and future generations?
DNA can be used for a wide range of genetic testing applications including disease testing, health risk analysis, identity testing and ancestry testing. With rapid advances in genetic testing technology, the number of diseases that can be identified through genetic testing is steadily increasing.
How can banked DNA be used in the future?
A large number of serious diseases can be traced to our genetic makeup. Having a clear picture of a family’s genetic history can assist future generations in understanding their health risks and allows them to take preventative measures early to mitigate the devastating effects of disease before it is too late.
What is the typical turnaround time?
14 business days from the date samples are received.
DNA Banking
The DNA within the capsule has been extracted and purified to remove any damaging enzymes that may break down the DNA over time, resulting in a pure sample. This sample is then reinforced with a microscopic bead which prevents fragmentation. Finally the sample is sealed under nitrogen gas to prevent oxidation creating the conditions for the DNA to lasts indefinitely and can be used for testing at any time down the road.
How long will banked DNA last?
Banked DNA can be stored indefinitely for future use.
If I need to test the DNA in the future, do I have to bring the DNA back to Lazarus
No. The DNA is ready for use at any time. Simply give your DNA directly to the DNA laboratory that will be performing your genetic testing and they will be able to use it immediately. The testing of the DNA destroys it so we do encourage clients to return the sample to Lazarus DNA or a member of the Global Genetic Health Network so the exact amount of DNA can be extracted and remainder rebound and sent back to you for future use.
How do I store banked DNA?
Your banked DNA capsule can be stored safely at room temperature. No freezing or special storage conditions are required.
About the Laboratory
Lazarus has the expertise of ancient DNA scientists who intimately understand the breakdown and recovery process of DNA. They work with some of the most challenging samples in the world. Lazarus is part of the Global Genetic Health Network which allows clients to access ancestry testing, medical testing and legal testing from a variety of the top world laboratories.
Who has control over the DNA sample? Is my information kept private?
You have complete control over your banked DNA. Lazarus extracts, purifies and preserves your DNA at our laboratory, then sends the banked DNA back to you for safekeeping. Your privacy is very important to us – we do not use your sample for any unauthorized testing or share your private information with any unauthorized third parties.
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