The Collection, Archiving and Isolation of Nucleic Acids from Dried Clinical Samples for Molecular Analysis
The collection and preparation of clinical samples for molecular analysis is important for expanding applications in genetic identification, drug discovery, predictive medicine and pharmacogenomics. To simplify sample processing we have developed two chemically treated devices which are useful for dried clinical sample collection, sample archiving and, most importantly, DNA preparation for amplification. Nucleic acid preparation from samples collected on a treated matrix is simple, rapid and automatable. Blood and buccal cell samples collected on FTAŽ, a surfactant modified matrix, and FTAŽ Elute, a chaotropic salt modified matrix, can be stored for over 10 years under ambient conditions as demonstrated by STR analysis. We have demonstrated the use of DNA from these samples for genetic identification, real time PCR, DNA sequencing, whole genomic amplification and allele specific hybridization methods.
FTA Elute has proven to be particularly useful for sample collection followed by SNP analysis. A simple water elution yields a homogeneous pool of DNA free of PCR inhibitors which can be analyzed in a variety of ways. SNP analysis of blood samples collected and transported on FTA Elute has been preformed by sequencing, real time PCR analysis and allele specific hybridization. Preservation of rare samples has been demonstrated by using DNA from FTA Elute as a substrate for whole genomic amplification.
In conclusion, sample collection and DNA purification on chemically treated matrices provide an excellent alternative to traditional column or bead based nucleic acid purification methods.