Just like DNA, we evolve too.
Unlike DNA, our changes are aimed at being better and more efficient from the very start. We try to avoid all the trial and error that genes go through in living organisms.
Thanks to this evolution, we present to you our new swabs: RapiDri from Isohelix.
In the end, a swab is still a swab.
And all swabs used to collect buccal cells are used the same way. If you knew how to use the old ones, you’ll know how to use the new ones.
You wait for an hour after your pet has eaten, drunk, and brushed its teeth. We also recommend that you don’t do this after it has smoked.
To be honest, we generally recommend not smoking.
You open the package and take out the swab by holding the tube, without touching the end used for collection. The goal is to obtain its oral cells, not the epidermal cells from your fingers, along with any extras that may be stuck to them.
Rub the swab firmly and consistently inside its mouth. You need to collect the cells, not just brush against them.
If you’re in a rush, the minimum rubbing time is 20 seconds, although we recommend 1 minute.
Here’s the main difference: the swab is inserted into the RapiDri pouch, with the head placed in the drying area. No preservative liquids are used this time. We’ve switched to a reverse method: the swab is dried instead of being kept moist.
Fold the pouch, seal it with the coded label, and send it off without a worry until the results arrive.
Dry after use.
This is probably the most striking change.
When you place the swab inside the pouch it comes with, a microporous membrane quickly dries it. Remember, storing the swab is like childbirth: the head goes in first.
The process fully stabilizes the DNA inside the pouch, maintaining its quality and integrity. Laboratory tests under various normal conditions ensured its preservation for at least 3 months.
Normal conditions, mind you—don’t store it in the microwave and accidentally turn it on. High humidity and temperature are the worst conditions for preserving genetic material. However, once sealed, the RapiDri swabs handle these conditions well, withstanding tests up to 40ºC and 60% humidity.
No, don’t store them in the oven, no unusual experiments.
Besides stabilizing the DNA, the pouch also physically protects it from possible contamination during transport.
“But it’s just a pouch. What about moisture or the risk of water spilling on it?”
Everything is under control; the structure of the packaging is hydrophobic. Moisture cannot penetrate inside. Its DNA is preserved like a mummy in a pyramid.
What interests us are its benefits.
Firstly, everything the previous swabs did, these match. Buccal cells are collected by rubbing the cheeks, a completely non-invasive and comfortable method.
Once the swab is stored in the pouch, the DNA integrity is maintained for at least three months, as confirmed in the laboratory. And the amount of DNA preserved is as high, or even higher, than with previous methods.
If you’re curious, we’re talking about quantities (depending on the user) of 2-5 µg of total DNA. Those who have worked in genetics labs know that with these amounts, many fun things can be done. For those who haven’t, you’ll have to trust me when I say that 1 µg is more than enough, and you’ll even have some leftover.
Now let’s see what doesn’t just match, but surpasses:
- While switching from a small plastic vial to a pouch may seem trivial, at a large scale, the difference in space occupied is significant. The new swabs require less space, including packaging and transport. We save paper and cardboard and reduce pollution by making transport and storage easier. With the same resources, we can ship more.
- Another important detail from the previous point: plastic vials. The new kits are a more environmentally friendly and sustainable option. We need much less plastic in the new kits thanks to these swabs.
- Let’s review the list of dangerous substances in the new kit: none. There’s nothing in the product that poses a risk to the user. The only reason to worry would be if you accidentally ate the swab and the bag. Would a dog be capable of that? Without a doubt, but we assume you’ll keep an eye on it.
- Fewer swabs are needed. Again, the advantage is quantity. Only one swab is needed, which speeds up and simplifies the entire process and saves resources. Additionally, the chances of making a mistake during the process are reduced.
For all these reasons, we decided to switch to the new swabs. More efficient, more eco-friendly, more user-friendly. If you want to learn more about Isohelix’s RapiDri, we recommend visiting their website.
Nothing in nature endures without change, and we are no exception.
Would you like to order a tellmeGen genetic test and see for yourself the new saliva extraction method?