Exploiting formalin-preserved fish specimens for resources of DNA barcoding
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 2026
DNA-based Fish Species Identification Protocol
Published on: April 28, 2010
1Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, College of Fisheries & Life Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China.
Abstract:
With the development of the DNA barcoding project, a large number of specimens are required to establish the library of reference barcode. Formalin-fixed samples from museums provide a potential resource for it. However, recovery of DNA and amplification of the target gene from formalin-fixed samples are challenging. In this study, a hot alkali pre-treatment accompanied by the use of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) method was employed for DNA recovery from formalin-preserved samples, with the purpose of pursuing the optimal condition for high quantity and quality of DNA and minimizing PCR inhibition. Meanwhile, a semi-nested PCR-based method was developed to enhance the efficacy of amplification. This advanced protocol was demonstrated to be reliable and effective. Even for 23-year-old samples, genomic DNA could be extracted, and COI gene was correctly sequenced.
