HOWTO: Erase & Replace DNA traces [counter bio-surveillance]

Pre-requisite: completed "HOWTO: Extract DNA in a kitchen"


Introduction

Corporate and state DNA databases and biobanks are growing rapidly. DIY bio means anyone can collect your biological traces, extract DNA and learn about your most personal genetic predispositions, ancestry, or disease risks.

You wouldn’t leave your medical records on the subway for just anyone to read. It should be a choice. You should be in control of how you share your information and with whom: be it your email, your phone calls, your SMS messages, and certainly your genes. Take the first steps to protect yourself against new forms of biological surveillance with these easy to make sprays.

1. Erase

Equipment

  • distilled water
  • Clorox bleach (6% sodium hypochlorite)
  • measuring cups
  • funnel
  • spray bottle
  • kimwipes tissues or paper towel
  • nitrile or latex gloves

Steps

  1. Wearing gloves, mix 9 parts distilled water with 1 part bleach. For example, mix 1 mL bleach with 9 mL distilled water and pour into your spray bottle using funnel or a pipette.

  2. Spray the glass, silverware, or surface you wish to remove residual DNA from thoroughly.

  3. Let the bleach mixture sit up to 30min.

  4. Wipe the bleach spray off with a gloved hand.

  5. Wipe remaining bleach residue away with clean water.

2. Replace

Equipment

Steps

  1. To your spray bottle add DNA mixture & 1 mL of preservative (if using). Add distilled water to fill the bottle.

  2. Mix well.

  3. Spray liberally on sheets, clothing, soft and sensitive items. Use like febreeze! You can even spray it on yourself if you don’t include the preservative. You probably shouldn’t consume it though.

Protocols based on art product “Invisible” by Heather Dewey-Hagborg if you are interested in this topic check out biononymous.me for more.