Obtaining DNA Through Hair Samples
One of the most unobtrusive methods for DNA collection involves utilizing non-standard sampling techniques, which include hair. DNA exists in all bodily cells, including those in hair and fur, making it feasible to analyze and compare DNA samples extracted specifically from hair roots or follicles.
Efficiency of DNA Extraction from HairA single hair is composed of a shaft, bulb, and root, all of which are incredibly durable over time. This durability allows hair to be preserved for extended periods, maintaining its genetic properties intact. DNA is primarily extracted from the bulb, where the hair originates and grows. It's crucial for the hair used in testing to still have the bulb attached; cut hair strands without the root are not suitable for analysis due to the lack of viable DNA. Similarly, hair that has been shaved off is also not recommended.
Collecting Hair for DNA TestingTo achieve a reliable extraction, around 7 to 10 well-preserved hairs with their follicles are usually necessary, aiming for an extraction success rate of about 70 to 75%. A hairbrush serves as an excellent source for collecting such hairs, given that a healthy person sheds approximately 40 to 50 hairs daily. During collection, it is advisable to wear gloves to prevent the contamination of the sample with your DNA, ensuring that hairs are not directly handled with bare hands.