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Optimizing utilization of DNA from rare or archival anthropological samples
K M Weiss1, A V Buchanan, C Daniel
1Department of Anthropology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park 16802.
Human Biology
|October 1, 1994
Summary
Researchers developed adapter attachment and amplification (AAA) to amplify DNA from small, rare, archival samples. This method enables genetic analysis of irreplaceable historical specimens, like ancient bone and early blood samples.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Anthropology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Widespread interest exists in global human genetic diversity studies.
- Archival samples (ancient bone, hair bulbs, old blood samples) are often small, rare, and irreplaceable.
- Existing methods may not be suitable for amplifying DNA from limited or degraded archival materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and apply a novel DNA amplification method for small and archival samples.
- To enable genetic analysis of irreplaceable historical human specimens.
- To improve the efficiency of collecting and utilizing new anthropological genetic samples.
Main Methods:
- Adapter attachment and amplification (AAA) is a PCR-based method for amplifying DNA.
- The approach is designed for representative genome amplification from minimal starting material.
- Applied to DNA from 1960s-1970s Amazon basin red blood cell samples.
Main Results:
- The adapter attachment and amplification (AAA) method successfully amplified DNA from limited archival samples.
- The amplification was reasonably representative of the genome.
- Enabled analysis of DNA from decades-old red blood cells.
Conclusions:
- Adapter attachment and amplification (AAA) provides a viable method for analyzing irreplaceable archival genetic samples.
- This technique conserves precious and limited historical DNA.
- AAA can enhance the efficiency of anthropological genetic research using both new and old samples.