A Novel Method for the Extraction of Mitochondrial DNA from Human Hair, Skin, and Blood Stain

Forensic samples are often limited in their quantity; in addition, the quality of their biomolecules may also be in relatively poor condition. If there is insufficient material for nuclear DNA analysis, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) can provide great sensitivity and valuable information from samples such as hair, skin, or blood stains, by taking advantage of the fact that cells may contain thousands of copies mtDNA, while somatic cells typically contain two copies of nuclear DNA. In an effort to increase the safety, speed, simplicity, and efficiency of mtDNA extraction from forensic specimens, Pressure BioSciences, Inc. (PBI) has developed a novel extraction system based on a new, patented process called Pressure Cycling Technology (PCT). This PCT Sample Preparation System (PCT SPS) eliminates the requirement for the use of harsh chemicals and time consuming processes to extract and purify mtDNA from a number of samples. Furthermore, mtDNA may be released from the specimen in the single-use container in which the sample was collected, transported, and stored (PULSE Tube). In addition, mtDNA released by PCT from hair, skin, or blood can be amplified directly by PCR without the need for additional purification. Consequently, the PCT SPS offers a safer, more rapid, simpler, and more efficient method for extracting mtDNA.