A Simple Automated DNA Extraction Method for Dried Blood Specimens Collected on Filter Paper

Abstract

We developed a simple, inexpensive, and automated procedure for the extraction of genomic DNA from dried blood specimens (DBS) collected on filter paper. This DNA extraction method involves two simple steps. First, the DBS is treated with methanol. Genomic DNA is then extracted with Tris buffer in a heat incubation step. The use of common inexpensive chemicals such as methanol and Tris buffer makes this method very cost efficient. The isolated DNA samples can then be used for high-throughput genotyping assays. Both DNA extraction and PCR setup steps have been adapted for use with a Beckman Coulter core robotic system.