Additional Funding Sources
This project was made possible by the NSF Idaho EPSCoR Program and by the National Science Foundation under Award No. OIA-1757324.
Abstract
DNA extraction is a technique that allows researchers to examine genetic variation. DNA extraction can be performed through various techniques and purchasable kits; however, the efficacy of such approaches is rarely evaluated in the context of specific tissues. For tissues that are less commonly used for genetic sampling, there may uncertainty as to the best method of DNA extraction. Generally, DNA extraction is typically accomplished via physical or chemical digestion of tissues from the organism that was sampled. The purpose of DNA extraction is to purify the DNA so it can then be amplified in a Polymerase Chain Reaction and then read through genetic sequencing. Additionally, DNA extraction from tissues is most effective when the source tissue being extracted is fresh. As time passes, the cells and DNA begin to degrade, making it difficult for researchers to effectively sequence DNA from the older samples. Therefore, we developed a research project to examine the efficacy of DNA extraction techniques on scale samples that were collected over two decades ago.
Comparison of DNA Extraction Techniques Using 20 Year Old Oncorhynchus mykiss Scales
DNA extraction is a technique that allows researchers to examine genetic variation. DNA extraction can be performed through various techniques and purchasable kits; however, the efficacy of such approaches is rarely evaluated in the context of specific tissues. For tissues that are less commonly used for genetic sampling, there may uncertainty as to the best method of DNA extraction. Generally, DNA extraction is typically accomplished via physical or chemical digestion of tissues from the organism that was sampled. The purpose of DNA extraction is to purify the DNA so it can then be amplified in a Polymerase Chain Reaction and then read through genetic sequencing. Additionally, DNA extraction from tissues is most effective when the source tissue being extracted is fresh. As time passes, the cells and DNA begin to degrade, making it difficult for researchers to effectively sequence DNA from the older samples. Therefore, we developed a research project to examine the efficacy of DNA extraction techniques on scale samples that were collected over two decades ago.