Evaluation of extraction yield and quality of human genomic DNA from buccal cells using GenSwab™ sample collection device

There is a growing trend toward non-invasive, self-administered, remote collection of buccal (cheek) cells, because they are easy to collect, simple to transport at room temperature, and are a rich source of DNA for genetic testing and forensic applications. With Ahlstrom-Munksjö and Gentueri’s devices for sample collection and management, samples are preserved by desiccation on a solid support at room temperature, eliminating the requirement of messy and hazardous chemicals to stabilize the sample. Further, desiccation at room temperature simplifies the shipping process because there is no longer a need for expensive shipping materials when transporting liquid samples to the lab.

In our technical note, we describe the use of GenSwab™ device, as a simple yet efficient means to collect, preserve, and transport buccal samples suitable for downstream genomic analyses without compromising DNA yield or integrity.

This study was designed to investigate the extraction yield and quality of human genomic DNA (hgDNA) from buccal cells collected with GenSwab™ sample collection device. The GenSwab™ is designed with a foam swab used to collect buccal cells from the inside of the subject’s mouth. The sample is then easily transferred to a treated card, GenSaver™ Color 2.0, that can preserve the sample at room temperature — even for decades. The extracted DNA is subjected to qPCR analysis to determine the yield of DNA and if any PCR inhibitors are present.

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