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Frequently Asked Questions about DNA
Mar 14, 2007
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DNA?
DNA is the chemical that encodes the genetic blueprint of every living
organism. The Human genome consists of over 3 billion pairs of the 4
chemical subunits (bases) that together encode the genetic information-
the genes. There are known to be only about 30,000 genes needed to
"construct" a complete human, yet, there is enough DNA in the human
genome to code for about 18 million average sized genes. Therefore the
human genome has approximately 600 times more capacity to encode
information than is needed. This unique feature of the complexity of
DNA can be used both to encrypt information and hide it within a large
excess of non-coding material- the principle of finding a needle (or
perhaps a piece of straw) in a haystack. DNA Technologies uses this
knowledge to construct unique, synthetic DNA sequences that can encode
company and product-specific information and camouflage these among
natural DNA elements, to provide the ultimate security ID tag - the DNA
MatrixTM.
What is the DNA MatrixTM?
To use
DNA as an authentication mark, identifiable genetic segments are
combined with ink that can be applied as either a visible or invisible
marker called the DNA MatrixTM. The DNA MatrixTM, when included in
printing inks, can be combined with optical taggants to create a unique
security construction, easily identified in the field, and indisputably
verifiable in the laboratory. The DNA MatrixTM is scientifically
impossible to decode without prior knowledge of the sequences and
economically impractical to attempt to duplicate.
How does it work?
Forensic science uses a process known as PCR (Polymerase Chain
Reaction) to amplify and detect minute traces- even single molecules -
of DNA samples found at a crime screen and matches their sequences to
those of the victim or suspects DNA. The sequence information is
scientifically valid as indisputable evidence of the presence or
involvement of a person at a crime scene. In a similar way, DNA
Technologies applies this principle by adding minute quantities of a
specially designed mixture of DNA sequences to its security inks. The
amount of DNA added is so small that it does not affect or alter the
inks properties in any way. During testing, special complementary DNA
strands - the "keys" to unlocking the sequence - are used to amplify
the specific company and product–identifying sequences, thereby
confirming their presence or absence in the ink (or directly applied on
the article). In cases where tampering with the mark or ink are
suspected, sequence analysis of the DNA from the ink can be used as
forensic proof of authenticity.
Can it be read in the field?
The complexity of DNA science demands that the precise detection of a
DNA identifier is done in a laboratory setting, using specialist
equipment and specific molecular biology processes. To aid in field
detection, unique optical tags are added to the DNA Matrix™ to provide
quick, easy and cost effective identification (i.e. UV dyes or
pigments, IR phosphors, thermo-chromic inks, etc). DNA Technologies has
developed a unique DNA product that can be sampled, tested and verified
within a 2-3 hour time frame, using portable laboratory equipment.
Is it truly secure?
There are two key deterrents to counterfeiters – cost and complexity.
DNA science is neither commonly available, nor simple to understand and
implement without specialist know-how. It would require a vast
investment in resources and time to “break the code”. In addition, the
applied specific DNA sequences are hidden among millions of other-
non-specific genetic combinations. The chances of correctly guessing or
identifying the unique sequences are extremely low.
Is it toxic?
No. DNA is a naturally occurring molecule. Most of the DNA molecules we use are synthetic.
Is it environmentally safe?
Our technologies have met the standards for food and drug packaging.