Samples of Camel DNA: Sources, Quality, and Quantity

Camels have unique morphological and behavioral adaptations that make them culturally valuable. We are currently building a DNA sample archive for the dromedary, with associated phenotypic information, which we are using for genetic studies. With this archive in mind, the main objectives of this study is to determine which, out of blood, saliva, and tail-hair, provide us with the best source camel DNA—insofar as being: (1) easy to collect and store (long-term), and (2) giving consistent and sufficient DNA quality and quantity, necessary for genetic analyses. Blood, saliva, and tail-hair root samples were collected from three unrelated female camels, of the same age, from three widely recognized (non-racing) dromedary camel breeds (Wadh, Sufur, and Mejaheem). DNA was extracted from: (1) 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 µl blood samples, (2) 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 buccal swabs, and (3) 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 tail hair roots. The quality and quantity of extracted DNA from each sample was determined using gel electrophoresis and a Nanodrop spectrophotometer respectively. DNA yield, quality, and consistency across extraction replicates, were found best in blood, tail hair, and buccal swabs, respectively. Based on the results of this study, since the tail hair root samples were the easiest to collect and store, and provided adequate DNA quantity and quality (for genetic studies), it was selected as the main source of DNA in the Cdrom archive.