DNA SAMPLES USED TO PROTECT MISSING CHILDREN

Identigene is working with parents to protect their children against predators by offering DNA Profiling, a genetic alternative for identifying and locating a missing child. Child profiling is beneficial in that it may be used by law enforcement to track an abducted child's location, during cases like Samantha Runnion's.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DNA SAMPLES USED TO PROTECT MISSING CHILDREN

HOUSTON, Texas (July 19, 2002) – IDENTIGENE, an industry leader in DNA identification testing, is working with parents to protect their children against violent predators by offering DNA Profiling, a genetic alternative for identifying and locating a missing child. Recent high profile cases, like the murder of Samantha Runnion and the abduction of Elizabeth Smart, have reported the consequences of child abductions and kidnappings. Having a positive way to identify a child in an emergency situation is a growing concern among parents across the country as fingerprints, photos, and other forms of identification can change or be unusable in certain circumstances.

With DNA Profiling, DNA is collected from the childs mouth using a simple, painless cheek swab. Following collection, IDENTIGENE runs a DNA test on the childs sample and creates a unique profile for the child. The profile is immediately stored in a secure computer system, and in the event of a child abduction, the parent or law enforcement agency can contact IDENTIGENE for access to the childs DNA type. The DNA Profile can then be compared against evidence samples to assist in tracking the abducted childs location, which could aid in the return of the missing child.

Right now there are a great deal of companies touting home-collection DNA samples, in which the consumer can collect their own DNA sample and then store it at home," said Dr. Laura Gahn, DNA laboratory director for IDENTIGENE. While it may sound like a quick and inexpensive safety measure for parents, most individuals do not understand that these home-collected samples may not be usable down the road. Certain things like temperature, humidity, and proper storage can negatively affect the DNA samples. In addition, most consumers arent properly trained to collect their own sample and may fail to collect enough DNA, enabling any use in the future."

IDENTIGENEs staff is well trained to ensure proper collection and storage of each DNA sample, ensuring that the sample will be useable, if necessary. The DNA Profile will remain on file for a period of five years. Parents have the option to renew the service for additional five-year increments, if they desire.

IDENTIGENE also offers DNA Banking, in which parents can choose to just have the sample taken and properly stored by IDENTIGENE, in case it is needed in the future. No profile is created with this service, which could delay identification if necessary, but it offers a safe and economical way to store ones DNA.

With the recent tragic events occurring around the country, the importance of having a permanent way to identify your child becomes even more apparent," said Caroline Caskey, president of IDENTIGENE. Our desire is that DNA Profiling and Banking can bring some measure of Peace of Mind to parents by providing them with a permanent way to identify their child throughout their lifetime."
About IDENTIGENE
IDENTIGENE leads the DNA identification testing industry by utilizing advanced technology and providing superior customer service. Incorporated in 1993, IDENTIGENE has successfully resolved issues in paternity, infidelity, criminal investigations, immigration, inheritance rights, adoption, and family reconstruction through the more than 45,000 cases it has completed. IDENTIGENEs ultimate goal is to provide its clients with Peace of Mind before, during, and after testing. For further information on IDENTIGENE and its DNA testing services, visit www.identigene.com, or call 800-DNA-TYPE.
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