how to extract DNA from dried blood

Did you know that it’s possible to successfully extract DNA/RNA from dried blood spots even after 10 years? There is enough data to support this assertion.

However, the best output can be achieved if storage is done at room temperature using dried samples. As technology evolves, microsampling has emerged as a crucial concept in medicine and healthcare alongside other groundbreaking innovations, representing the next generation of dried blood spot (DBS) technology. Dried blood sampling is an alternative to traditional serum or plasma sampling for pharmaco- or toxicokinetic evaluations that has been applied to diagnostic screening in clinical, nonclinical, and drug discovery settings. Microsampling - combining the best of wet and dry sampling - is the perfect alternative to blood collection tubes that enables efficient, economical, and convenient remote sample collection.

Using a Microsampling Device to Collect Blood

Volumetric Absorptive Microsampling (VAMS) technology involves the use of sophisticated devices including various microsampling apparatus that are instrumental for total RNA/DNA purification and detection. A microsampling device is highly reliable hence you can use it to accurately collect a fixed volume of blood (for instance 10 or 20µL) within seconds. You can easily collect a blood sample through a fingerprick blood draw. You can then dry the sample and transport it to the lab under ambient conditions thus eradicating the need for exorbitant cold chain or biohazardous shipping.

Total DNA/RNA Extraction From Dried Blood

A study conducted to look into the potential of using microsampling devices, based on VAMS technology for total RNA/DNA purification and detection, had much to reveal. On the evaluation, specially optimized protocols based on unique silicon carbide nucleic acid were used to isolate and purify both DNA and RNA from a microsampling device. The researchers used spectrophotometry to measure yields after which they discovered both DNA and RNA (large mRNA and microRNA) had been preserved on the tips of the microsampling device. The isolated DNA/RNA was reported to be of the best quality and all the purified nucleic acids were successfully utilized in various downstream molecular tests such as Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) analysis.

Alternative blood collection devices indicated above have been shown to be useful in extracting DNA from dried blood. Moreover, they could also be used to counter some of the inconvenience of blood tube collection such as the potential of bodily fluid leakage, the need of venipuncture, and related hassles.