Apo E genotyping from blood stored on filter paper.

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Dried blood spot (DBS) on filter paper is a common method for various studies.
• Validation is needed for DBS use in tropical regions with fluctuating temperatures.
• Apolipoprotein E (Apo E) gene genotyping is crucial for lipid-related research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the utility of blood spotted on filter paper as a transport and storage system for Apo E gene genotyping.
• To validate DBS method for Apo E genotyping under tropical environmental conditions.

Main Methods:

• Blood samples from 55 patients were spotted onto Whatman 3 MM filter paper.
• Genomic DNA was extracted from dried blood spots stored at room temperature for 0, 3, and 12 months.
• Long-term stability was assessed using samples stored for eight years under varying tropical conditions.

Main Results:

• Genotyping results from dried blood spots precisely matched those from fresh blood samples.
• Successful DNA extraction and Apo E genotyping were achieved from dried blood samples stored for up to 1 year.
• The method proved effective even with samples stored for eight years under challenging environmental conditions.

Conclusions:

• Dried blood samples on filter paper are feasible for Apo E genotyping in tropical climates.
• This method offers a reliable alternative for genetic analysis where sample preservation is challenging.
• Further large-scale validation is recommended before widespread clinical adoption.