Single-Tube Protocol for the Extraction of DNA or RNA from Paraffin-Embedded Tissues Using a Starch-Based Adhesive

Abstract

We describe a method using an inexpensive craft glue to routinely isolate specific areas of tissue as small as 1 mm2 from paraffin sections. The tissue may be digested to release nucleic acid suitable for PCR or reverse transcription PCR. The use of this procedure obviates the requirement for manual microdissection or ultraviolet light irradiation. Tissue remaining on the slide can be stained and analyzed, allowing the precision of the extraction to be determined. The slide can be stored as a permanent record of the material taken for analysis.