SRY-PCR Test
SRY detection for competition athletes
Since 2025, an increasing number of (international) sports federations have required female and male athletes to verify their biological sex before they are eligible to participate in (international) competitions.
Eurofins Forensics Germany supports the implementation of these new requirements by allowing athletes to prove their biological sex using the SRY-PCR test required by the sports federations.
Biological background
SRY stands for sex-determining region Y.
The SRY gene is located on the short arm of the Y chromosome and is crucial for testicular development.
If the SRY gene is present, the person is most likely biologically male. If the SRY gene is absent, ovaries develop during embryonic development, and the person is very likely biologically female.
In rare cases, however, the "visible" sex can differ from the genetic sex. A SRY-PCR test cannot determine the cause of these cases.
SRY detection
The SRY-PCR test procedure is as follows:
Witnessed sample collection
The test is performed using a saliva sample taken from inside the mouth with a sterile swab. Therefore, there is no health risk to participants at any time.
According to the German Genetic Diagnostics Act (GenDG), sample collection by an independent third party is required. Documented sample collection can be carried out either at one of our German locations (Ebersberg near Munich, Cologne, or Wildberg) or at a physician's office.
Requirements for witnessed sample collection:
- No eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes before sample collection
- Presentation of a valid photo ID
Sample submission
The sample is submitted to our laboratory by the sample taker.
Sample analysis
DNA analysis is performed using DNA extraction from a buccal swab, PCR amplification of specific genetic markers, and STR genotyping.
STR-PCR genotyping is performed using a specific assay for the SRY gene and the commercial GlobalFiler™ PCR Amplification Kit from Thermo Fisher (Applied Biosystems™), which is used, among other things, for creating genetic fingerprints in paternity tests or forensic investigations. This kit includes three additional sex-specific/Y-chromosome-specific markers: DYS391, Y-Indel, and Amelogenin. This further increases the reliability of the test, ensuring that false-positive and false-negative results can be clearly identified.
Data analysis and results delivery
The analysis results are evaluated by our scientists, and the report is provided by mail and electronically (via a secure download link).
The turn-around time is typically 5 business days from receipt of the sample at the laboratory.
Please contact us with any questions or for pricing information at forensik@mgx.eurofinseu.com.