DNA Extraction Methods

Abstract

KATIE LONG and MARK FLOOD, Forensic Science Program, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV 26554. Evaluation of DNA Extraction Methods. 

Three forms of DNA extraction types include solution-based, column-based, and magnetic bead-based methodologies, with the latter being the accepted methodology used in forensic laboratories. Magnetic bead-based DNA extraction uses the negative charge of DNA and the positive charge of the magnetic beads to isolate the DNA strands and produce a purified sample. However, solution and column-based extraction methods use the same techniques of washing to purify DNA and typically have comparable DNA yields. Cheek swabs were obtained from ten individuals and the three extraction methods were performed to determine the quantitation of double-stranded DNA and the quality of the gel electrophoresis profile. Preliminary results indicate that solution-based extraction produces a slightly higher yield of double-stranded DNA having a 3.92% difference between the average quantitation of 26.29 ng/µL from solution-based and 25.28 ng/µL from magnetic bead-based methods. However, it is expected that the magnetic bead-based extraction will produce higher quality gel electrophoresis results.  Overall, the methods examined produced similar DNA extraction efficiencies.  This research was made possible by NASA West Virginia Space Grant Consortium, Training Grant #80NSSC20M0055 and the STaR Sure Grant.