A simple, rapid, inexpensive and widely applicable technique for purifying plant DNA

Abstract

We describe and evaluate a quick and simple technique for purifying plant DNA from a wide range of taxa. The method utilises selective binding to diatomite in the presence of a chaotrope and allows simple, rapid and inexpensive preparation of DNA of length and purity adequate for restriction analysis of nuclear and chloroplast sites, cyclic DNA amplification and other studies. Coupled with recent developments in handling of field-collected plant samples and the development of non-radioactive nucleic acid labelling techniques, this purification protocol facilitates application of molecular systematic approaches in botanical institutions without access to specialised biochemical facilities.