Genetic preservation is the process that PERPETUATE uses to grow and then cryopreserve cells containing viable DNA from pets and horses. Genetic preservation is also known as cell banking or gene banking.

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a nucleic acid that contains genetic instructions for the biological development of an organism.

You can contact PERPETUATE directly by phone at 508-641-7775 or email at info@perpetuatelab.com. Or you can order a tissue collection kit directly by clicking order online right now.

You maintain complete ownership of your animal's cell line after it has been cryopreserved.

PERPETUATE's cryopreserved cells can be kept viable for decades.

You may by written request have PERPETUATE transfer or dispose of your cell line at any time.

PERPETUATE recommends that your veterinarian perform two skin biopsies (appx. size of pencil erasers). These skin biopsies are then shipped to our Massachusetts laboratory by overnight courier for processing. We recommend that you order a Tissue Collection Kit to facilitate the harvesting and shipment of your tissue samples.

Skin biopsies are a minor outpatient procedure usually done using a local anesthetic. There is no long-term pain and the healing process is relatively quick. Some owners have skin biopsies taken when their pet is sedated for another procedure like teeth cleaning.

Yes, tissue containing viable cells can be harvested from a deceased animal provided the animal's body has been kept cool (no more than 50°F) but not frozen for less than five days. Contact PERPETUATE immediately to discuss your situation. Please refer to EMERGENCIES for more information.

Although the vast majority of our clients are dog, cat and horse owners, we have developed cell lines on many different species of animals and birds.

Adipose and blood cells can be used to produce viable cell lines. Blood must treated with heparin to prevent coagulation and has a 50% rate of success. Cells from organs, hair, teeth, bones and nails cannot be used.

In our experience, most veterinarians respond positively to their client's desire to harvest tissue from their dog, cat or horse. Your veterinarian should call us if they have questions or reservations. We may be able recommend a veterinarian near you who has taken tissue samples for PERPETUATE clients.

Clones are genetically identical individuals occur in nature as identical twins and when organisms reproduce asexually. With the cloning of Dolly the sheep in 1996 we are now able to produce clones of most animal species using a laboratory technique called somatic-cell nuclear transfer (SCNT).

Cloning is the ultimate breeding technology as it reproduces genetically identical progeny. Progeny produced by traditional breeding are limited to about half of the desired genetic traits with only a 50% chance of being the desired gender. Clones are the same sex and possess 100% of donor animal's genetic traits. Cloning removes chance from breeding and unlocks door to new biotechnologies.

Cloning is accomplished through a process called somatic-cell nuclear transfer. Scientists remove the nucleus of a female oocyte (egg cell) and then replace it with DNA from the selected donor animal's cells. The new cell is activated, begins to divide and form an embryo. The embryo is then implanted into a surrogate mother for normal gestation and delivery.

Cloning dogs, cats and horses is technically possible today however continues to be complicated and expensive. Most PERPETUATE's clients have banked their cells and are waiting for the cloning to become more simplified and affordable.

PERPETUATE's services are absolutely restricted to animals.