DNA & Genomics

Explore the fascinating world of genetics

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Discover The Power

Tucked away in nearly every cell of your body is an incredible biological machine. It's custom built, runs on an operating system unique to you, and powers your existence - it's your DNA!

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The Mighty Molecule

What is DNA?

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is your body's unique blueprint, a complex molecule that holds the instructions for building and operating you. This genetic code, composed of just four letters – A, T, C, and G – determines everything from the color of your eyes to your immune system's defenses.

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Where does DNA come from?

DNA is inherited from our parents - half from mom and half from dad. The process of inheriting DNA is complex, but the result is a one-of-a-kind combination that makes you, you! This is also why children often resemble their parents and siblings, inheriting a mix of their physical and genetic traits from mom and dad.

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DNA's Iconic Structure

DNA's instantly recognizable shape is a double helix, resembling a twisted ladder. The sides of the ladder are made of alternating sugar and phosphate molecules, while the rungs of the ladder are made of pairs of nitrogenous bases: adenine (A) always paired with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) always paired with guanine (G). The unique sequence of the bases in your DNA determines your genetic code. This code provides the instructions for your body's development and functions.
 

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DNA Health Insights Using Cord Blood
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DNA FUN FACTS

Did You Know?

The human genome consists of approximately 3 billion base pairs of DNA.
 

DNA is found in all living organisms, from bacteria to humans.
 

If you stretched out all the DNA in a single human cell, it would be about 2 meters (~6.5 feet) long!

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Understanding your DNA

Thanks to advancements in science and technology, gaining a deeper understanding of your genetic makeup is not only possible but also more accessible than ever. DNA testing is a powerful tool for self-discovery that can provide valuable insights, empowering you to make informed choices that could positively impact your overall health and well-being.

More than meets the eye

DNA's Influence

DNA's influence extends far beyond our physical traits and characteristics. It plays a role in various aspects of overall health and wellbeing, like:

Nutrition & Sleep 

Disease Risk & Inherited Disorders

Responses to Medication 

Bone density & muscle mass

Gene Expression & Regulation

It's important to remember, while DNA plays a significant role, it's not the only factor that determines our health and wellbeing. Environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and other influences also contribute.

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Benefits of DNA 
& Genomic Testing


Available For All Ages

Empowers Early Intervention

Enables Personalized Health Plan

Informs Lifestyle Changes

Identifies Drug Sensitivities

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Are all DNA tests the same?

DNA tests are not all the same. Different DNA tests can reveal different aspects of an individual's genetic profile. They offer unique insights to guide health management strategies, lifestyle choices, and potential medical decisions.
 

Certain tests can analyze a targeted gene or set of genes to provide more detailed information about an individual's risk for specific health conditions, like hereditary cancers, or focus on specific genes that influence aspects of your health and wellness, like how efficient your body is at burning fat, while a test like whole genome sequencing captures a person's entire genome (all 22,000 genes!) and can provide information on potential disease-causing variants, medically actionable genes, carrier screening, and drug sensitivities.  DNA tests can differ in ways, including:
 

•    Purpose of the test:         Health, ancestry, carrier screening 
•    Scope of analysis:            How much DNA is analyzed specific gene or region of DNA
•    Type of sample tested:    Saliva, cheek swab, cord blood
•    Testing Technology:         Microarray or sequencing, for example

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Newborn DNA Tests

At ViaCord, we’re committed to providing families the peace of mind and empowerment that comes with planning for their children’s future health. That's why we offer multiple DNA testing options for newborns with the convenience of using a sample of cord blood isolated during our cord blood banking process.

And for families wanting to possibly take advantage of genomic testing in the future, we offer Newborn DNA Guardian. This unique option allows parents to preserve a sample of their child’s pristine newborn DNA prior to exposure to biological and environmental factors that impact everyone’s DNA later in life. The DNA sample can be used for potential future genomic testing. 

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For Newborns
Newborn Digestive Health

Gain insight into your child’s predisposition for developing celiac disease and primary lactose intolerance.

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For Newborns
Genetic Insights Panel

 

Analysis of 290+ genes associated with actionable, childhood-onset conditions. 

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For Newborns
Whole Genome Sequencing

Analysis of 2,500 genes with known associations to childhood onset- conditions and drug sensitivities. 

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Adult DNA Tests

No matter where you are on your journey, DNA genomic testing offers a wealth of information that can empower you to take proactive steps towards better health and wellness. Take control with personalized insights from these adult DNA tests.

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For Adults
Whole Genome Sequencing

Analysis of 6,000 genes with known associations to adult onset- conditions and drug sensitivities.

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For Adults
myDNA Personalized Wellness

30+ personalized DNA insights to help optimize your sleep, diet, nutrition, and fitness.

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