A non-destructive enzymatic method to extract DNA from arthropod specimens: Implications for morphological and molecular studies.

ABSTRACT: There is a growing necessity to integrate morphological and genetic studies. This paper proposes a new technique that allows DNA extraction of arthropods while still keeping intact the entire morphology of the specimens. The technique uses Proteinase K to dissolve protein tissues and preserve the chitinous exoskeleton of specimens. The method is fast, cheap, non-toxic, and allows for good morphological preparations of specimens retaining much of their tridimensional structure. The methodology works fine with specimens preserved in different kinds of media, such as for dry (pinned) specimens, and specimens preserved in Ethanol. In addition, it allows the extraction of DNA from fresh specimens, as well as from specimens preserved for a long time. The technique works well for morphological st

SUBMITTER: Santos D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5794151 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature