A Modified SDS – Based Method Applied for Extraction of High-Quality DNA from Raw Corn and Roasted Soybean

Abstract The probability of contamination of non-transgenic varieties with genetically modified (GM) products increase as a result of global expansion of areas sown with transgenic crops. DNA-based methods as accurate, efficient and reliable methods are preferable for detection of GM material in raw or highly processed foods. Isolation of high quality DNA with a suitable and efficient DNA extraction protocol is crucial for getting precise results in DNA amplification. In this study, we performed modifications of previously known Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-based DNA extraction method regarding the incubation period, DNA pellet washing and addition of organic solvent extraction, to improve DNA quality and to reduce costs. Raw corn kernels and roasted soybean seed were used as samples. DNA was extracted following three protocols, modifications of Edwards protocol. The type of detergent used in raw corn sample did not cause significant effects on extracted DNA yield and purity, while in roasted soybean samples the 2% (w/v) SDS lysis buffer gave the highest DNA yield. The additional incubation step raised the DNA yield from raw corn for 121%, while the purest DNA from soybean sample was obtained using organic solvent extraction. Electrophoretic determination of DNA integrity showed varying degree of DNA smearing from roasted soybean. Contrary, all extraction protocols used on raw corn kernels produced a high molecular weight DNA. Thus, our in-house DNA extraction protocol is as efficient but more cost effective compared to commercial kits and can be used for raw corn, while the protocol for roasted soybean needs further improvement.