Sample Collection Method
Using the DNA Test Kit
DNA Test Kit and Collection Method
Buccal swabs can be used
Buccal swabs (cells from the inside of the cheek) can be used for DNA testing.
Many people may feel anxious about how to collect the sample or if it will hurt.
However, it is very easy to collect. Simply rub the swab provided in the DNA test kit firmly against the inside of your cheek for 10 back-and-forth strokes.
In addition to buccal swabs, DNA testing can also be performed using other samples such as cigarette butts, toothbrushes, or hair with roots. If you wish to use other samples, please check the page below.
Private testing does not require an observer, so you can collect the sample yourself.
For private testing intended for personal confirmation, the client performs everything from sample collection to document preparation themselves.
Submission of ID documents or contact information of the tested individuals is not required.
For legal testing used in court, our professional staff will visit a location of your choice, such as your home or a nearby cafe, to collect the samples.
Guide to Required Documents for DNA Testing
If you have any questions regarding the DNA test kit or sample collection method, please call us at (0120-919-097).
Sample Collection Method [Buccal Swab]
For breastfed babies, please collect the sample either before feeding or wait at least 2 hours after feeding. Rub evenly all around the inside of the cheek.
(Rub the swab firmly against the inside of the cheek for 10 back-and-forth strokes so that buccal cells attach to the entire swab.)
Take out the 2 sterilized swabs at the same time.
As shown in the image, rub the 2 designated swabs firmly against the inside of the cheek for 10 back-and-forth strokes to collect cells.
Carefully place the swabs back into the paper bag without letting the tips touch anything, insert into the return envelope, and drop it into a mailbox.
*Drying indoors overnight is best, but if you are in a hurry, dry with warm air from a hair dryer for about 5 minutes, ensure there is no moisture left, and then return it.
[Customer Question]
Can I use other samples?
If buccal swabs are difficult to collect, you may use other samples such as toothbrushes or cigarette butts.
*Using samples other than buccal swabs may incur additional fees/time.
Correct Sample Collection Method and Precautions
Please return liquid or raw tissue samples that cannot be mailed dry via frozen delivery (chilled delivery is acceptable if returned within 2 days of collection)
The most commonly used sample for DNA testing is a buccal swab.
A single swab rubbed on the inside of the cheek contains enough high-quality DNA to perform about 100 tests.
However, if the moisture causes the natural bacteria in the mouth to multiply, the DNA can be degraded in just one day, making testing impossible.
If using samples that cannot be dried, they must be returned via frozen delivery (chilled delivery is acceptable within 2 days) to prevent bacterial growth during mailing.
Why samples must be dried
The swabs provided in our DNA test kit are sterilized medical swabs, so they are safe to put in the mouth. (Even a newborn baby can easily be swabbed.)
However, the human mouth is said to contain over 100 times more bacteria than toilet water.
Since bacteria are transferred along with the buccal cells onto the swab, if any moisture remains, the bacteria will multiply immediately.
Bacteria multiplying on the saliva left on the swab will degrade human cells and DNA within a single day.
As temperatures rise, the risk of not obtaining a result increases not only for swabs but also for blood stains, semen, saliva, etc., that are sent without being dried.
How to handle it
After firmly rubbing the inside of the cheek for 10 back-and-forth strokes, leave the swab to dry indoors overnight.
Alternatively, use a hair dryer to blow warm air gently until dry, then place it in the return envelope and drop it in a mailbox.
No stamps are necessary.
If you are storing collected samples for a long time (more than 2 weeks for cheek swabs, or more than 2 days for liquid samples like semen), they must be stored at -20°C or below.
A home freezer can store them for up to a few months.
Nevertheless, returning the sample immediately after collection is the best option.
Other Precautions
- Please be careful not to let the swab tip touch your hands or any other objects after sample collection.
- Since the subject's ID is written on the kit, make sure to finish collecting samples for one person before starting on the next.
- Accurate results cannot be obtained if another person's sample (cells) or bacteria are mixed in.