The Division of Human Genetics offers a DNA extraction service to academic institutions in the Western Cape.
We are dedicated to provide this non-profit service in a timely and quality assured fashion
BIOLOGICAL SAMPLES
The service offers the extraction of DNA from whole blood, buffy coat or saliva; and the preparation and long-term storage of buffy coats.
It is the responsibility of the researcher to ensure that biological materials are obtained ethically and that proper consent was obtained. The researcher should be able to produce a copy of the ethics letter before transporting samples to the lab.
a. Transport/ collection
For the isolation of DNA from whole blood, refrigerated samples should be sent to the laboratory in 5ml EDTA (“purple top”) tubes within 48 hours of being collected. Buffy coats should be transported frozen in either 1.5 or 2ml safelock Eppendorf tubes. Saliva samples collected in Oragene kits should be transported to the laboratory at ambient temperature.
Please contact the DNA isolation laboratory (number below) for advice/ assistance on methods for transport and collection of specific sample types.
b. DNA extraction and turn-around time
DNA extraction from blood is done the using the salting out method. Extraction from saliva is done following the manufacturer’s instructions. DNA is eluted in TE buffer into nuclease-free Eppendorf tubes. The turn-around time is five working days from the day samples were delivered to the laboratory.
c. Quantification
All DNA samples are quantified on the NanoDrop ND-1000 (Qubit can be done on request for an extra charge).
d. Quality Control
Depending on the specific requirements for the sample, quality control can be performed to test the DNA integrity and/ or quality.
e. Cost per sample
DNA extraction from whole blood, buffy-coat or saliva: R300.00 - R450.00. Please contact the lab for accurate pricing.
f. DNA banking
Samples are stored in a temperature-monitored and secure facility at -20°C (medium term) and -80°C (long-term).
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: DNA isolation laboratory – Mr Faghri February or Mr Akshay Vanmali (021 406 6501)