Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS)

 

Results are typically ready within 3-5 months, once received in the laboratory, unless unexpected circumstances arise. These circumstances will be communicated as soon as possible. We reserve the right to limit quantity of orders purchased. Please contact for bulk purchasing options.

We take pride in performing the adequate quality control measures and taking the steps necessary to ensure that our lab’s protocols actions and procedures are trackable and ultimately provide you with a test result that you can trust.

1. If you cancel your order before we ship your sample collection kit: If you request a refund after placing your order, but before our Sample Coordinator ships you your sample collection kit, we will provide you with a full refund less a small service charge.
2. If you cancel your order after we ship you your sample collection kit: If you request a refund after your sample kit is shipped to you, OR after you ship back the collection kit, we will provide you with a full refund less shipping and collection kit costs, and a small service charge

If you have any questions about our refund policy, please contact us at info@discoverydna.ca.

We recommend a pre-test consultation, where a genetic counsellor will consult on things you are concerned about (e.g., chronic pain, seizures, or other widespread symptoms), and use that information to make a recommendation on the most appropriate test, and approach to finding any gene variants that could potentially be affecting those concerns. We will then conduct a post-test consultation, which is included in the cost, to assist in understanding the results.

We offer several collection options to meet the needs of different individuals while maintaining the highest standards of quality and data integrity. Regardless of the collection method, all of our kits are validated to produce clinical-grade DNA suitable for our genetic testing services.

Although all collection methods can be used for every test we offer, for whole genome sequencing we recommend the following order of preference.

 

Dried Blood Spot Card (Preferred)

The Dried Blood Spot (DBS) card is our preferred collection method for whole genome sequencing whenever possible. It typically provides high-quality DNA with an optimal starting quantity for sequencing and bioinformatic analysis. Because the sample is collected from blood rather than the oral cavity, it also minimizes the presence of bacterial DNA, helping maximize sequencing performance.

 

Saliva Kit

Our saliva collection kit is the preferred alternative when a Dried Blood Spot sample is not practical. Saliva generally provides a high DNA yield, and the stabilizing solution within the collection tube helps preserve the sample and limit bacterial growth during transport, resulting in consistently high-quality DNA for clinical testing.

 

Buccal Swab

A buccal (cheek) swab is recommended when neither a Dried Blood Spot nor saliva sample can be collected. This option is particularly well suited for infants, elderly individuals, or patients who have difficulty providing other sample types. While DNA yield is typically lower than blood or saliva, it still provides sufficient DNA for clinical-grade sequencing and analysis.