Blood PCR kits eliminate need for DNA purification

The Kapa Biosystems blood PCR kits, available in the UK and Ireland from Anachem, can be used to perform PCR directly from whole blood samples.

Users can now perform direct amplification from fresh or frozen whole blood, blood collected in EDTA tubes or on FTA Elute Cards, 'Guthrie cards' or filter paper.

Kapa blood PCR kits are claimed to reduce contamination risk, turnaround time and costs of genetic testing.

They are compatible with existing workflows, standard protocols and routinely used detection methods.

The kits contain KAPA blood DNA polymerase, a second-generation enzyme derived through a process of molecular evolution engineered specifically for the amplification of DNA directly from whole blood.

This enzyme eliminates the need for DNA extraction in genetic testing protocols for humans, other mammals and birds, as it withstands the presence of multiple PCR inhibitors, which usually affect wild type polymerases.

The enzyme is available in two optimised PCR mixes, which contain all components required for whole blood PCR, except primers and template (blood).

Using Kapa blood PCR kits, DNA fragments may be amplified directly from reactions containing one to 20 per cent (v/v) whole human blood without pre-treatment of blood samples or DNA isolation.

Kapa Blood PCR Mix A is preferred for assays employing highly sensitive fluorescent detection systems.

Kapa Blood Mix B is formulated for higher yields and GC-rich amplicons and is recommended when analysis is by agarose gel electrophoresis and ethidium bromide staining.

Products generated with Kapa blood PCR mixes A or B may be analysed by restriction endonuclease digestion, DNA sequencing or DHPLC analysis.

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