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Updated: Jun 4, 2026
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Isolation of Cognate RNA-protein Complexes from Cells Using Oligonucleotide-directed Elution
Published on: January 16, 2017
Isolation of DNA and RNA
1Department of Haematology, Haemophilia Centre and Haemostasis Unit, Royal Free Hospital School of Medicine, London, UK.
Methods in Molecular Medicine
|February 23, 2011
Summary
Storing buffy coats, the interface between red blood cells and plasma, offers a convenient alternative to whole blood for later DNA isolation and plasma fraction retrieval, saving freezer space.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Hematology
Background:
- Standard blood collection for coagulation tests uses 3.8% trisodium citrate (1:9 ratio).
- Whole blood for DNA analysis requires storage at -50°C, consuming significant freezer space.
- Current methods present challenges in sample management and storage efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore an alternative, space-saving method for storing blood samples for DNA isolation.
- To evaluate the utility of buffy coats for subsequent molecular analyses.
- To assess the feasibility of isolating plasma fractions from stored buffy coat samples.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples were collected using standard anticoagulant protocols.
- Whole blood samples were processed for DNA isolation and stored at -50°C.
- Buffy coats were isolated following centrifugation and stored as an alternative sample type.
- Plasma fractions were isolated from buffy coat samples.
Main Results:
- Buffy coat storage provides a viable alternative for DNA isolation, reducing the need for extensive freezer capacity.
- This method preserves the integrity of DNA for later analysis.
- Buffy coats facilitate the simultaneous isolation of plasma, enabling further biochemical testing.
Conclusions:
- Storing buffy coats is a more convenient and space-efficient method for preserving blood samples for DNA isolation and plasma analysis.
- This technique simplifies sample management in research and clinical settings.
- Buffy coat preservation allows for flexible sample processing and analysis at a later time.
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