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DNA Isolation

DNA Isolation

DNA isolation protocols can be fast and straightforward or complex and time-consuming depending on the type and quality of DNA required for further processing. For example, plasmid DNA extraction is a bit more complicated than genomic DNA extraction because of the need for an appropriate lysis method to separate plasmid DNA from gDNA during isolation. However, for specific applications, such as long-range DNA sequencing that require a good yield of high- quality DNA samples, we need to follow...

DNA Isolation

DNA Isolation

DNA from cells is required for many biotechnology and research applications, such as molecular cloning. To remove and purify DNA from cells, researchers use various methods of DNA extraction. While the specifics of different protocols may vary, some general concepts underlie the process of DNA extraction.

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Updated: May 25, 2026

Optimized Bone Sampling Protocols for the Retrieval of Ancient DNA from Archaeological Remains

Optimized Bone Sampling Protocols for the Retrieval of Ancient DNA from Archaeological Remains

Published on: November 30, 2021

Setting up an ancient DNA laboratory.

Tara L Fulton¹

¹Department of Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, 320 Mueller Laboratory, University Park, PA 16802, USA. tlf19@psu.edu

Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)

|January 13, 2012

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Ancient DNA research requires strict protocols to prevent modern DNA contamination. This guide details challenges and offers guidelines for setting up a lab and minimizing contamination risks during sample collection and preparation.

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Last Updated: May 25, 2026

Optimized Bone Sampling Protocols for the Retrieval of Ancient DNA from Archaeological Remains

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Published on: November 30, 2021

Primer Extension Capture: Targeted Sequence Retrieval from Heavily Degraded DNA Sources

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Removal of Exogenous Materials from the Outer Portion of Frozen Cores to Investigate the Ancient Biological Communities Harbored Inside

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Published on: July 3, 2016

Area of Science:

Paleogenomics
Molecular Biology
Archaeology

Background:

Ancient DNA (aDNA) is often degraded, increasing susceptibility to modern DNA contamination.
Contamination poses a significant challenge in ancient DNA studies, potentially compromising results.

Purpose of the Study:

To outline challenges in ancient DNA research.
To provide guidelines for establishing a dedicated ancient DNA laboratory.
To detail strategies for minimizing exogenous DNA contamination.

Main Methods:

Review of experimental protocols for handling ancient specimens.
Guidelines for laboratory setup and workflow design.
Best practices for sample collection and DNA extraction.

Main Results:

Identification of key challenges in aDNA research, primarily contamination.
Establishment of critical control points for contamination mitigation.
Recommendations for robust experimental design in aDNA studies.

Conclusions:

Implementing specialized protocols is crucial for reliable ancient DNA analysis.
Careful laboratory setup and sample handling minimize contamination risks.
Adherence to guidelines ensures the integrity of ancient DNA data.