Celebrating National DNA Day

Each year on April 25th, National DNA Day celebrates the groundbreaking discoveries that have shaped our understanding of genetics and the role of DNA in modern science and medicine. 

It marks two significant milestones: the publication of the structure of DNA in 1953 and the completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003.
 

A Brief History of DNA Day
On April 25, 1953, James Watson and Francis Crick published their groundbreaking discovery of the DNA double helix. Their paper, Molecular Structure of Nucleic Acids: A Structure for Deoxyribose Nucleic Acid, transformed our understanding of genetics and paved the way for advances in medicine, forensics, and biological research.

In 2003, following 13 years of international collaboration and 50 years after the discovery of the DNA double helix, The Human Genome Project, mapped the entire human genome for the first time. 

This historic achievement provided a blueprint of human DNA - helping advance disease genetics research and contributing to the development of personalized medicine.

Why National DNA Day Matters
National DNA Day is more than a celebration of significant DNA milestones — it’s a reminder of the profound impact genetic research has had on our world, and the ways it will continue to shape our future.

Advancements in genomic research and DNA sequencing continue to help us uncover complex connections between genetics and aspects of health, including:
 

• Disease Risk
• Medication Response
• Immune System Function
• Metabolism & Food Responses
• Body Chemistry & Physiology 

Understanding Your DNA: Knowledge Is Power

Today, science and technology have made it easier and more accessible than ever to understand your own unique DNA blueprint through DNA testing. It is important to understand what you want to learn from your DNA before choosing a test. DNA tests can differ in: 
 

• Purpose: Disease risk, ancestry, carrier screening
• Scope of analysis: The extent of the genome analyzed (specific genes or broader regions)
• Sample type: Saliva, cheek swab, or cord blood
• Testing methodology: Microarray or sequencing, for example
   

At ViaCord, we’re committed to helping families plan for their future health. That’s why we offer genetic testing options for both newborns and adults.

FOR NEWBORNS
Unlocking DNA Insights Using Cord Blood

As we acknowledge advances in genetics, it’s important to recognize the role umbilical cord blood can play in genetic testing. Umbilical cord blood, or cord blood, is the blood that remains in a newborn’s umbilical cord after delivery. 

In addition to being a rich source of hematopoietic stem cells, which have an established role in stem cell transplantation for certain conditions, cord blood can also serve as a source of DNA for genetic testing.

Newborn genetic health tests can identify potential risks for certain medical conditions before symptoms appear and provide insights into how the child may respond to medications in treatments. Having access to this useful information early on can help parents make informed choices about their child’s health, from nutrition and lifestyle choices to potential management of certain genetic conditions.

ONLY WITH VIACORD
Get More From Cord Blood Banking with Genetic Health Insights

ViaCord is the only private cord blood bank harnessing cord blood and the power of DNA to help new parents access meaningful genetic health insights about their child.

For families planning to bank cord blood with ViaCord, can choose from our optional genetic tests that use a small sample of cord blood collected during the standard banking process.
 

Using cord blood for testing offers parents:

• A convenient way to gain meaningful health insights
• No need for an additional DNA sample
• No impact on the quality or quantity of banked stem cells
• Immediate value from cord blood banking
  
  
   

Explore ViaCord's Genetic Health Insight Tests 

FOR ADULTS
Comprehensive Insights with Whole Genome Sequencing Test

No matter what stage of life, understanding your own unique DNA can be empowering. Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) is considered the comprehensive form of genetic testing available, analyzing nearly all of a person’s DNA.  

ViaCord’s Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) test for adults captures your entire genome, sequences all ~22,000 of your genes, offers an array of valuable information, and includes:
 

• Analysis of 6,000 genes with known associations to adult-onset conditions.
• Identifies potential disease-causing variations in your DNA.
• Insights into medication sensitivities and potential response to certain treatments.
• (Optional) Analysis of genes associated with diseases that would be inherited by your offspring, for example Cystic Fibrosis
   

Why Consider a Whole Genome Sequencing test?
 

• Enable Early Intervention
• Guide Lifestyle Choices
• Make Informed Health Decisions
• Support Personalized Health Plan

It's important to remember, while DNA plays a significant role in our health and wellness, it's not the only factor that determines our wellbeing. Exposure to environmental factors (i.e lifestyle choices) and biological factors (i.e illnesses) also play a role in our genetic health.
 

How to Celebrate DNA Day

• Learn More About Genetics: Dive into the fascinating world of DNA by exploring free educational resources online, including ViaCord’s DNA & Genomics 101 resource page.
   
• Share Your DNA Story: If you’ve taken a genetic test or participated in genetic research, consider sharing your experience to help raise awareness.
   
• Spread the Word: Newborn DNA found in cord blood can provide parents with access to early, meaningful health insights about their child. Only ViaCord offers genetic tests using cord blood.
  
   

Whether through research, education, or proactive health planning with ViaCord’s cord blood banking and genetic health insight tests — we’re all part of this exciting journey into the world of DNA.