DNA Testing Help required

[jason1980]

I have had a DNA swab taken from my mouth to be matched against a 20yr old envelope. The reason is to see if I am related to the person that licked the envelope where some DNA might still be trapped in the seal as well as behind the licked stamp. The person who originally licked the envelope passed away, but this is to see if I am a living relative where some of my DNA should match the person to a point?

Anyone know more or be able to explain further the process of how this can work?? Is it even possible to get DNA from a 20yr old envelope?

[dot.hawkes]

errr, could this not be done simply by checking birth certificates and asking your relies? It seems a bit extreme to spend money on such a test, anyway, i don't think dna survives unless kept in untampered scintific conditions.

[Ethel]

It is possible to get dna from an envelope that old.

Old cases are currently be solved through this method as was reported in the paper very recently.

[dot.hawkes]

yes I have read that too Ethel, but as i have written above, in the case of old crimes, the evidence was meticulously collected, reserved and subsequently stored to avoid deterioration. in the case of an envelope, perhaps sealing a document 20 years ago and left in normal domestic conditions, it would be unlikely. I reckon, or it would undermine the great trouble the forensic scientists go to.

[dot.hawkes]

*preserved

[Ethel]

dot - it's impossible to tell from the OP why jason has had the dna - or who took it.

I assumed it was part of a police enquiry.

[dot.hawkes]

I assumed it was to prove he is a blood relative of someone for inheritance purposes , lol, aren't we nosy : )

[jason1980]

lol...

Ive discovered that my grandfather might not have actually been my grandfather. Both the grandfather I thought was my grandad and the one who might be have passed away and there is no other known relatives to test against.

The envelope is my only slim chance to find out if I am related to the man I always believed to be my grandfather. I know it's called forensic DNA testing with me being the "subject" and the envelope being "special evidence"

I have to wait 6 weeks for a result!!