How a DNA Test is Completed in Our Laboratory

Go behind the scenes at NorthGene™ and discover what happens to your DNA sample once it arrives at our laboratory. From sample registration and DNA extraction to advanced genetic analysis and result reporting, our scientists explain the rigorous processes, cutting-edge technology and quality controls that ensure every DNA test is delivered with accuracy, reliability and confidence.

• Learn how DNA is extracted, amplified and analysed using advanced laboratory techniques.
• Discover how capillary electrophoresis and STR analysis are used to determine biological relationships.
• See the quality control measures and verification processes that ensure accurate results.

Full Video Transcript

Hi, I’m Nathan, a Laboratory Scientist at NorthGene™, and I’m Harry, a Laboratory Scientist Apprentice here at NorthGene™.

Today we’re going to show you how DNA testing is completed – following your samples from the moment they arrive in our lab, through processing, and all the way to when we send you the results.

As soon as your samples arrive at our Deeside-based laboratory we check them and confirm that all necessary consent has been provided. If anything is missing or unclear, we’ll contact you before moving forward.

Once valid consent has been confirmed, your samples are booked into our system.

This involves telling the system that they have arrived and recording relevant key information such as name, date of birth and ethnicity.

 Your samples are assigned a unique sample identification number – or S number – so that we can accurately track which samples belong to you. Each person involved in the case is assigned their own S number.

Once all S numbers are confirmed, samples are ready to be processed.

Step 1: Extraction

Firstly, we check the S numbers by scanning the unique sample bar code and ensuring this is the same on the samples, the consent form and on our system.

Once this is checked, we move on to extracting the DNA from the sample swabs.

To do this, we cut the tip off the swab and place it into the corresponding sample tube.

Swab solution is then added and the tube is vortexed and heated to release the DNA into the solution.

 Once heated, the tubes are cooled, ready for the next stage.

Step 2: PCR

 While your samples cool, we create a plate map, which tells us exactly where the S number will go on the 96 well plate.

We transfer the DNA from your sample into the plate, which already contains the master mix. This is also witnessed to ensure complete accuracy.

The DNA is then heated in a cycle. This splits the DNA into two strands and creates new copies in a process called amplification.

Step 3: Capillary Electrophoresis

We transfer your amplified DNA to a Genetic Analyser to undergo Capillary Electrophoresis.

This machine reads the DNA markers by measuring how long or short they are and counting how many times they repeat. These are known as STRs, the number of times it repeats is the number we get for each marker.

Step 4: Data

When the machine finishes running, we review the data to make sure all of the controls have passed.

We then compare the DNA results for each person involved in the case., Typically this includes the mother, potential father and the child.

Each child inherits two markers – one from the mother and one from the father.

To determine paternity, we look at the number of these shared markers and the likelihood of the child inheriting these from the potential father.

For paternity to be confirmed, the potential father’s markers must match the child’s and probability of paternity must be equal to or greater than 99.99%.

When data analysis is complete, we write the report with the concluding results.

This is second checked by another member of the team before being sent to the email addresses on the consent form

Fast, accurate results you can trust.

Summary

At NorthGene™, every DNA test follows a carefully controlled process designed to deliver accurate, reliable and trustworthy results. From the moment your sample arrives in our laboratory through to final analysis and reporting, our expert team applies rigorous scientific methods and quality controls to ensure confidence in every result.

Want to learn more about our DNA testing services? Contact us today to discover how our laboratory expertise can provide the answers you need with confidence.