Aussies develop dipstick DNA technique

Australian researchers have found a quick and easy way to gather DNA for genetic testing.

It would greatly simplify and speed sample collection for plants and animals.

Their report, “Nucleic acid purification from plants, animals and microbes in under 30 seconds,” is published in the online journal PLOS Biology.

Current technology is requires expensive laboratory equipment, technicians and multiple steps.

The group discovered that cellulose-based filter paper -- Whatman No.1 paper – can rapidly bind and retain nucleic acids.

Using that paper, they developed a “dipstick” that can purify nucleic acids from a wide range of plant, animal or microbe samples in less than 30 seconds.

They also developed a simple washing process to remove PCR-inhibiting chemical/biological contaminants present in a plant crude extract while retaining enough DNA for amplification.

Following the one-minute wash, a user will transfer the sample to a PCR reaction tube, where it remains for PCR (polymerase chain reaction) analysis.

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