DNA is a useful source of information for research and medicine. It starts by collection, following which it is deciphered by a wide range of analysis, from simple genotyping to deep whole genome sequencing.
The most popular way to collect DNA is drawing blood. Not very pleasant for the patient, as we have all noticed, and it also requires an experienced person, a nurse. The blood must be kept cold and DNA extraction should be done not long after the sampling. Still, it brings high yields of up to 30µg od DNA.
Alternatively, saliva sampling can be used to collection DNA. Sampling is painless, but it is still not an obvious choice especially with children. Yields are highly variable, and lower than with blood. Furthermore, kits are quite expensive.
Today, there is a sampling method to easily collect DNA, whilst also providing high yields. It is based on buccal sampling. I invite you to take a look at how it works and the benefits for your studies. [Read more…]