UC Berkeley students to submit swab with cells

BERKELEY, CA

The university is asking freshmen and transfer students to return a cotton swab covered in their cells. This is to introduce them to gene-based medicine.

Geneticists will analyze the sample collected from inside the students' mouths for metabolism, lactose and alcohol tolerance.

The information could help students decide what best to eat and drink. The samples will be confidential, and students can opt out.

Copyright © 2025 KGO-TV. All Rights Reserved.