The process begins with the collection of your DNA sample. Within a couple of days of placing an order, you will be sent a DNA swab kit. Inside will be a sterile packaged cotton swab and detailed instructions which should be followed.

You carefully rub the inside of your cheek with the cotton swab. Cells from the inner cheek membrane are absorbed within the cotton. You then place the cotton swab into an envelope provided with the DNA kit.

To ensure your privacy, The DNA kit has a unique numerical code which has been linked to your personal data prior to sending the DNA kit. Writing your name and address on the envelope is therefore not necessary.

Your DNA will be analyzed in a recognized European laboratory, which performs the following steps:

1) Purifying DNA

Purifying DNAFirst of all, the DNA is cleaned. A number of substances are added to the absorbing paper (lysis buffer, binding buffer, elution buffer, and proteinase K).

On the one hand, this serves to destroy the cells which contain the DNA. On the other hand, it ensures that the DNA attaches itself to a filter.

2) Visualizing DNA

The replicated strings of DNA are placed in a special gel and then a conductive liquid. From up close, this gel is porous. Since the liquid is electrically charged, pieces of DNA are pulled through the minuscule spaces in the gel. The smaller DNA fragments pass through the gel more easily since they experience less resistance from the porous structure. As a result, fragments of identical size form a band. It is at this moment that the unique genes in the DNA can be made visible by using a special colouring matter and ultraviolet light.

A special camera is used to make a high resolution photograph. The unique genetic "fingerprint" has now been captured.

The numerical code which is linked to your DNA is also photographed, ruling out accidental swaps, and ensuring your privacy. The lab technicians do not have access to your personal data.

After the procedure has finished, both the DNA and gel pattern are directly destroyed in the lab. This occurs under high pressure at 120 degrees Celsius.