Alternative/Non-Standard DNA samples
Bio-Gene DNA’s sample testing process allows you to put your mind at ease without anyone else knowing. Discreet DNA testing involves collecting non-buccal swab DNA samples from the people in question and sending them into our lab for comparison.
If you choose to test someone without their knowledge, there are some samples that provide a better opportunity for obtaining a usable genetic profile than others. Much of our testing is done using samples such as hair, fingernail clippings, ear wax swabs, a toothbrush, cigarette butts, and chewing gum. We can’t guarantee that DNA will be found on the sample that you provide to us, but if it does contain enough DNA to obtain a profile, we can compare it to another DNA profile to determine paternity, maternity, sibling, grandparent, and avuncular relationships.
Note: The success rate for alternative DNA samples is not as high as with a standard mouth swabs. The success rate depends on the quality of the DNA material.
The average success rate of different DNA samples is listed below.
| DNA Sample | Comments | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Buccal/cotton swab | Swabbing of cheek inside of the mouth | 99.99% |
| Whole blood | Medical blood tube drawn in Vacutainer | 99.99% |
| Blood stains | Band-aids, tampons, bloody tissues | 90% |
| Semen | Swab from condom, undergarments, clothing, etc. | 90% |
| Dried umbilical cord | Enclosed in a paper container | 90% |
| Used tissue | Nasal mucus/discharge | 80% |
| Hair | At least 5-7 strands with roots | 80% |
| Toothbrush | Air-dry the toothbrush for 30 minutes | 80% |
| Dental floss | Do not touch with fingers | 75% |
| Nail clippings | New cut stored in paper envelope | 75% |
| Ear wax | Cotton swab or “Q-tip” | 65% |
| Chewing gum | Sugar-free is preferable, stored in foil gum wrapper | 50% |
| Cigarette butts | 2 to 4 butts in paper envelope | 50% |
| Clothing | Hats, baseball caps, underwear, bandana | 45% |
| Razors | Place in paper envelope | 40% |
Common questions about alternative samples
However, it is not just the type of sample that is important but also other variables such as :
1. Poor storage conditions (e.g. damp environment, extreme heat or cold etc)
2. Poor sample handling (possible contamination with other DNA or dirt)
3. Not enough DNA present (e.g. heavily used toothbrush vs used once only)
In all cases the laboratory technicians are trained to make every effort, and multiple attempts, at obtaining a usable genetic profile with every DNA sample that is received.
When should you use an alternative sample for DNA testing?
- When the alleged father is unavailable testing but you have an item that you believes contains his DNA.
- You’ve already tried talking to the person, letting them know the benefits of finding the truth and having a peace of mind, but they won’t budge. This is an issue we hear all the time and we sympathize!
- You have a DNA sample from deceased or missing tested party.
- When the child in question is older, and you don’t want them to know that their paternity is in question.
