Common Applications of DNA Extraction

Deoxyribonucleic Acid, or DNA, consists of genetic information that determines the development and functioning of an organism. Nowadays it is possible to extract DNA from any biological material, from tissues to hair to saliva. It has found many applications across several industries, including the manufacture of various medications like vaccines and hormones. Read on for some of the most common uses of DNA extraction.

Vaccines And Hormones

Recombinant DNA technology helps in the manufacture of vaccines like Hepatitis B vaccine. Whole DNA vaccines have not yet been approved for use on humans, but DNA extraction does help in manufacturing animal vaccines and in the general development of some human vaccines.

Using recombinant DNA technology, DNA extraction aids in the development of hormones. Two major hormones that have been developed are:

Insulin: Diabetics, particularly those with type 1 diabetes, frequently require insulin injections. Insulin is produced in large quantities using recombinant DNA technology.

Human growth hormone: Recombinant human growth hormone can help people with renal carcinoma, growth issues, and Turner’s syndrome.

Gene Therapy

Genetic mutation allows unmutated DNA to be introduced into a person’s stem cells, replacing defective genes with normal ones. Though not yet perfected, gene therapy shows promise for permanently correcting inherited abnormalities. CRISPR, a new gene-editing technique, appears promising for treating abnormal genetic conditions.

Other applications of extracted DNA include gene sequencing, detection of viruses and bacteria in the environment, genetic causes of disease, and drug development.

Genetic Engineering

The extracted DNA can be used to genetically engineer plants and animals. In the case of plants, DNA is used to identify, isolate, and extract desired genes for replication in subsequent generations. DNA is extracted from plants with desirable traits and inserted into the genomes of other plants.

GMO plants have benefits such as more nutritious food, tastier food, disease and drought-resistant plants that require fewer environmental resources (such as water and fertilizer), less pesticide use, and an increased supply of food at a lower cost and with a longer shelf life.

Diagnostic Uses

Some medical conditions require DNA extraction to be officially diagnosed, especially if the condition is genetic. Cystic fibrosis, Huntington’s disease, and Down syndrome are common examples. DNA extraction can also be used to determine whether a person is a carrier of the disease.

Forensics

Traces of DNA left behind in a crime scene provide useful information in identifying the persons present during the crime. Since DNA can be extracted from any biological material, any strand of hair or droplet of blood can contribute to moving the investigation forward. The identities of victims, suspects, and witnesses can be proven by DNA.

Paternity Testing

The most common method of scientifically confirming whether an individual is the father of a child is through DNA testing. Apart from proving or disproving claims to paternity, DNA testing can also help adopted children find their parents.

Sample degradation, purity level, exogenous DNA contamination, sample quantity, and cross-contamination of samples are all factors that influence the quality of results in a variety of applications. When the extraction is done correctly, the results are excellent for use and reproducible.

If you need reliable and high-quality extraction products in Tucker, GA get in touch with us at AMD Biotech today.