The amazing DNA giveaway

Nature is so often amazing and inspirational, and our DNA is no exception. Genetic sequencing has led to some crucial scientific advances in a relatively short space of time since it was first developed in the 1970s. Without it, we wouldn’t have uncovered the secrets of the human genome, or made a huge leap forward in forensics by developing methods to catch criminals via the minute clues they leave behind.

But DNA can also be beautifully artistic – images of the double helix is a simple yet striking example – and a company in Surrey has been creating unique pieces of art from their customer’s DNA samples. DNA Art U.K Limited was the first UK-based company to offer the chance to get your genetic code in print as part of their DNA Vision® package.

The process is simple: send off for a collection kit, swab the inside of your cheek and send your sample back to the lab, then wait for your unique artwork to arrive.

First step is obtaining the DNA; each customer gets a cotton swab which they rub on the inside of their cheek to collect cells from the inner cheek membrane. This is then put into a synthetic sleeve inside a metal box printed with a unique code to ensure your personal data remains just that.

Once back at the lab the DNA begins its journey from cotton swab to canvas – or Perspex or metal. First the DNA undergoes purification. A number of substances – a lysis buffer, binding buffer, elution buffer and proteinase K – are added to the absorbance paper. This serves to destroy the cells containing DNA, remove contamination and ensure the DNA attaches to the filter.

Next the DNA is replicated using the polymerase chain reaction to increase the number of unique sequences. The sample is divided into four separate sequencing reactions, containing all four of the standard nucleotides – A, T C and G – and DNA polymerase. To each reaction is added only one of four chain-terminating nucleotides which terminate DNA strand extension and result in DNA fragments of varying length.

The fragments are placed in agarose gel and a conductive liquid. An electric current is passed through the gel in a process called electrophoresis and the nucleotides are pulled through the miniscule spaces in the porous gel. Smaller fragments pass through more easily as they experience less resistance from the gel.

Fragments of an identical size form a band and the position of the band depends on which nucleotide it corresponds to. The unique genes in the DNA are stained with ethidium bromide and placed under an ultraviolet light where the dye fluoresces. A high resolution photograph is then taken which reveals your unique genetic fingerprint.

The unique code is also photographed with the DNA which is then destroyed – along with the gel pattern – at high pressure and 120°C. The lab technicians never know whose DNA they are working on – all they have is the numerical code, which ensures anonymity for the customer.

Next comes the arty part - the raw image is sent to one of DNA Art’s designers who digitally enhance and customise the image to your specifications. Your DNA profile then goes to print – if it’s a canvas it’ll be printed at the company’s Weybridge base, but if you’ve opted for swanky Perspex or Metal print it’ll be sent to one of London’s leading design and print studios.

A certificate of authenticity is included and it’s all packaged up and sent back to you, ready to hang.

Your DNA sequence is unique, but if you feel like making it a family affair, you could opt for one of DNA Art U.K’s DNA Vision® Duo packages. Get your DNA pictured along with your better half’s – or what about getting the whole family’s DNA in print? Whatever your choice, you can be sure that no one else will have a unique piece of art like yours.

If you’d like to win then just send your name, address and laboratory or institution to phil.prime@laboratorynews.co.uk and you could win a Medium Canvas picture - worth £360 - of your uniquely beautiful DNA sequence. Good luck!