X-Message-Number: 7820
Date: 07 Mar 97 16:42:25 EST
From: Brook Norton <>
Subject: Re: re: DNA storage

Re: Paul Wakfer's post #7780
Paul discusses the possibility of setting up a service for long term storage of
DNA samples.  I am interested in such a service because it seems to me that it
might aid in the reanimation process.


As we age, our DNA mutates and so when the time comes for reanimation, cloning a
new body or correctly regenerating the old one would be relying on damaged
instructions.  Therefore, I think it makes sense to store a sample of your DNA
when you are as young as possible to preserve a better blueprint for
reconstruction.

I'm 36 and last year had a skin sample preserved by a company called "Third
Millennium Research, Inc."  based in WA, 206-524-6376.  For $55 they send you a
kit to take a sample by rubbing a patch inside your cheek (facial).  You send
back the sample and they encapsulate it.  Their literature says "The storage
system is designed to protect the DNA from physical and chemical abuse and
consists of the following:  The DNA and an antioxidant have been placed on a
small piece of filter paper in the bottom of a glass tube.  The glass tube has
been heat fused to seal off the DNA from the atmosphere and then enclosed in
plastic to prevent its breakage during examination.  The DNA capsule rests
inside the block of anodized aluminum and entrance to the chamber is restricted
by a heavy bolt."  The antioxidant is BHT.  They send you the aluminum block.

I'm curious about how you would compare the effectiveness of the above method,
vs your proposed method of storage in liquid nitrogen.  I've recently ordered 2
more kits for my wife (who's not too interested) and my 1 yr old daughter who
has nice, fresh, DNA.

(Mr) Brook Norton
aerospace engineer


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