LGC’s Improved Quick and Dirty DNA Extraction Method for Screening Large Populations

Screening of large populations to identify genetically optimal breeding candidates is one of the key tasks for every plant or livestock breeder. These screenings are often driven by the need to analyse thousands of samples in a relatively short time period, such as when conditions are suitable for breeding. The overall cost per extraction is heavily influenced by species, sample material type (e.g. seed or leaf tissue), starting weight, the requirement for high throughput, and the consumables required for automation. The importance of costs and the existing time pressures clearly illustrate the demand for a quick and dirty DNA preparation method like NaOH-based HOT-SHOT extractions. Such methods do have several clear disadvantages including poor DNA quality, degraded DNA due to the NaOH treatment, and significant limitations to the storage of the extracted DNA.

LGC has developed an automation-friendly improved method for quick and dirty DNA preparations, which offers two significant benefits. Firstly, the extracted DNA can be stored for at least 4 weeks at room temperature, and even longer at 4°C. Secondly, the same lysate can not only be used for immediate screening (direct PCR) but also for a second DNA extraction using a silica-based extraction technology to provide the highest DNA qualities, applicable for Next Generation Sequencing or chip-based technologies. The case study presented here shows the proof-of-concept for both corn leaves and bovine ear punch samples.