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DNA Study 

    In early 2000 a group of Brigham Young University (BYU) students, in Provo, Utah, headed by Molecular biologist Dr. Scott R. Woodward and philanthropist James LeVoy Sorenson originated a ground breaking study called the Molecular Genealogy Research Project (MGRP). The MGRP’s main objective was to build a large and comprehensive database of correlated genealogical and genetic information.

    The project moved from BYU to the Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation (SMGF), a non-profit organization in Salt Lake City, Utah. "http://www.smgf.com/" This allowed the work to advance at a more consistent and efficient pace. In February, 2004 the Y-Chromosome (male) database was released online for public viewing and use. http://www.smgf.com/ysearch.jspx

During the first two years of the study, DNA samples were obtained through blood samples collected exclusively by trained medical personnel at scheduled collection sites. In July 2002, a new method called GenetiRinse was introduced. This involves the use of a mouthwash for the collection of cheek cells. A participation kit can be requested through the mail and returned using a postage paid envelope. This will allow participants to provide a sample in the convenience and comfort of their own home at no expense to them. http://www.smgf.com/page.jspx?name=request_kit 

   

    The following items are required for all participants

1. A signed consent form (blank provided)

2. A GenetiRinse mouthwash will be provided

3. A pedigree of four (4) generations of the participant’s surname – starting with the participant. The pedigree is required to be either: 1)-electronic format (GED.COM) or 2)-a printout. Ideally, both a GED.COM and the printed pedigree are recommended to eliminate the possibility of electronic or human errors. (Hand written pedigrees are not recommended)

   The items will be packaged and returned to SMGF by an OCGS member. Your personal information will be kept confidential and is only needed for recording purposes.

  The data collected in July 2006 for males will be available to search in the Y-Chromosome database within the next six (6) months depending on the relativity of the collection date and the quarterly updates. To learn when a database update has occurred please place your name and e-mail address in the requested fields in the “Contact Us” link on the SMGF website. To receive additional information or updates to the SMGF website and/or the databases check the following in the Contact Form. http://www.smgf.com/page.jspx?name=contact

   Please keep me informed of database updates and other important changes The data collected in July 2006 for females will be entered into the Mitochondrial (female) database and will debut on the SMGF website in the second half of 2006. SMGF would like to request contact from:

1. Anyone having any connections to early Jamestown, VA (circa 1607)

2. Anyone having any connections to Scandinavian ancestry.

3. Anyone having any connections to other countries outside the United States http://www.smgf.com/page.jspx?name=contact

If someone already ‘gave blood’ they do not need to provide another sample. But if they have added substantial information to their pedigree chart they may submit a new pedigree chart.  Exact name, address, etc will be needed.



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