QIAamp DNA Blood Kits yield DNA sized from 200 bp to 50 kb, depending on the age and storage of samples (see figure “Apoptotic banding in stored blood“). The purified DNA is suitable for long-range PCR amplification (see figure “Long-range PCR“) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis used, for example, for paternity testing (see figure “Paternity testing by RFLP analysis“).

No phenol–chloroform extraction is required. DNA binds specifically to the QIAamp silica-gel membrane while contaminants pass through. PCR inhibitors, such as divalent cations and proteins, are completely removed in two efficient wash steps, leaving pure nucleic acid to be eluted in either water or a buffer provided with the kit. QIAamp DNA Blood technology yields genomic, mitochondrial, or viral DNA from blood and related body fluids ready to use in PCR and blotting procedures.

The QIAamp DNA Blood Mini Kit simplifies isolation of DNA from blood and related body fluids with fast spin-column or vacuum procedures (see flowchart “procedure“). Fresh and frozen whole blood with common anticoagulants, such as citrate, EDTA, and heparin, may be processed. The QIAamp DNA Blood Mini Kit processes sample sizes of up to 200 µl, with a preparation time of 20–40 minutes. The typical yield from 200 µl healthy whole blood is 4–12 µg, with an elution volume of 50–200 µl. The QIAamp DNA Blood Mini Kit procedure is automatable (see figure “QIAcube“).

QIAamp sample preparation technology is fully licensed.

Vacuum processing

With the QIAamp DNA Blood Mini Kit, blood can be processed by vacuum instead of centrifugation, for greater speed and convenience in DNA purification. QIAamp mini spin columns are accommodated on the QIAvac 24 manifold using VacValves and VacConnectors. VacValves should be used if sample flow rates differ significantly, to ensure consistent vacuum. Disposable VacConnectors are used to avoid any cross-contamination. Use of VacConnectors also allows these QIAamp spin procedures to be performed on QIAvac 6S with QIAvac Luer Adapters.

The QIAamp DNA Blood Mini Kit provides proven QIAamp technology for purification of DNA from a variety of materials using Mini spin columns with 2.0 ml collection tubes. Sample sources include:

Fresh and frozen whole blood or buffy coatPlasma or serumBone marrowLymphocytesPlateletsBody fluids