An alternative procedure for extraction of DNA from ancient and weathered bone fragments

Abstract

Bone is the most challenging tissue for DNA extraction and purification. Expensive commercial kits and specific equipments are often used in forensic and anthropology laboratories towards that goal. We present here an integrated procedure that gives satisfactory results for DNA preparation from fresh, ancient or weathered bones. Extraction is performed under simple but efficient vacuum-controlled conditions that greatly limit the risks of cross-contaminations. The whole process has been designed to minimize the need for expensive equipment and chemicals, and to be compatible with any molecular biology laboratory. In addition, no toxic reagents are necessary and the procedure is straightforward. Combined with quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), this method allows species identification and sex determination from subcellular amount of DNA (1-5 pg). In addition, enough DNA is generally obtained for human DNA profiling if necessary. The whole procedure from bone treatment to the final qPCR results takes less than 48 hours. This procedure should allow any laboratory with standard molecular biology equipment and expertise to perform bone DNA characterization whenever necessary.