Frequently Asked Questions
DNA PRESERVATION
What is DNA preservation?
DNA preservation is the procedure that PERPETUATE utilizes to preserve viable DNA from pets. DNA preservation is also known as cell banking or gene banking.
What is DNA?
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a nucleic acid that contains the genetic instructions for the biological development of a cellular form of life.
How do I order PERPETUATE ’s DNA preservation services?
Please contact PERPETUATE to order a Tissue Collection Kit at phone number 877-473-7738 or email at PetDNA@perpetuate.net.
How long can DNA be preserved?
Viable DNA can be preserved in liquid nitrogen for decades.
Who owns my DNA cell line after it has been preserved?
You maintain complete ownership of your pet’s cell line after it has been developed and preserved.
What if I wish to discontinue storing my pet’s DNA?
You have complete control of your pet’s DNA, hence, you may direct
PERPETUATE to continue storing, to dispose of or to transport your cell line at any time.
TISSUE SAMPLING
How are tissue samples collected?
PERPETUATE ships a Tissue Collection Kit to your veterinarian. The veterinarian uses Kit materials to perform skin biopsies then ships the tissue samples to our laboratory in Pennsylvania by overnight courier.
Will tissue sampling cause my pet pain?
Tissue collection is a minor outpatient procedure that veterinarians usually do using a local anesthetic. There is no long-term pain and the healing process is relatively quick and pain-free. Some pet owners have skin biopsies taken when the pet is sedated for another procedure like teeth cleaning.
For what species does PERPETUATE preserve DNA?
Although the vast majority of our clients are dog and cat owners, we have developed cell lines on many different species of small animals and birds. PERPETUATE ’s business partner, Cyagra, Inc. preserves DNA from large animals such as horses and cattle.
Can a cell line be developed from any cellular material other than tissue?
No, only viable cells from animal tissue can be used to clone an animal. Animal blood, fur, teeth, bones, nails and so forth can not be used.
What if my veterinarian refuses to take tissue samples?
In our experience most veterinarians respond positively to their clients’ desires to perpetuate their pets. Your veterinarian should call us if they have any questions or reservations. Alternatively we may be able recommend a veterinarian near you who has taken tissue samples for our clients.
When is the best time for collecting tissue?
Today! It is best to establish a viable DNA cell line while your pet is healthy, strong and alive! Waiting can be risky.
Can viable tissue containing viable DNA be collected from a deceased animal?
We have been able to process tissue from deceased animals within six days of their death. However this is not recommended. The sooner that the tissue samples are taken and reach the laboratory the greater the chances of developing a viable cell line. See EMERGENCIES.
ANIMAL CLONING
What is a clone?
A clone is an identical twin. Clones have the identical genetic makeup (DNA) of their genetic donors. Natural examples of clones in addition to twins include bacteria and yeast; some snail and shrimp species reproduce by cloning.
Why clone animals?
Cloning is the ultimate breeding technology. Pet owners routinely attempt to transfer desired traits from their exceptional pets through selective breeding. With luck their new puppy or kitten will exhibit desired genetic traits and be of the preferred sex. Cloning removes the luck factor: clones are genetic duplicates and of the same sex as the donor pet!
How is cloning accomplished?
Cloning is accomplished through a process called nuclear transfer. Scientists remove the nucleus of a female oocyte (egg cell) and replace its nucleus with DNA from the genetic donor’s cells. The new cell is activated in the laboratory, begins to divide and forms an embryo. The embryo is then implanted into a surrogate mother for normal gestation and delivery.
How long will it take to clone my pet?
No one knows for certain when, or if, pet cloning will be commercially possible. What is known is that since a sheep, Dolly, was cloned in Scotland in 1996, scientists have successfully cloned cattle, mice, goats, pigs, horses, cats and a dog. Cloning dogs and cats is more difficult than cloning livestock.
Why not delay tissue collection until pet cloning becomes more common?
Many animal owners can not or are not willing to risk the loss of their pet before cloning becomes a reality. Furthermore some experts believe that cells taken from young animals may be more responsive to cloning.
What about human cloning?
PERPETUATE 's services are absolutely restricted to animals. We are not involved in human cloning in any way.
