UC Riverside

CTAB (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide) DNA extraction is a method for isolating genomic DNA from different tissues. This method employs a cationic detergent to break down cell membranes and contain contamination or interference from compounds such plant secondary metabolites. We have modified the CTAB protocol to suit DNA isolation from different tissue types. We found that by adjusting the percentage of CTAB in combination with modifying subsequent washing steps, total DNA recovery is optimized and increased. For plants, this protocol has been used with different solanaceous plants such asCapsicum annuum,Nicotiana benthamiana,Nicotiana tabacum,Solanum lycopersicum, andSolanum tuberosum, whose phenolic acid content is usually an obstacle to obtaining genomic DNA free of contamination. This protocol has also been used withArabidopsis thaliana, Marchantia polymorpha,Oryza sativa, and differentCitrusandPopulusspecies. For animals, this protocol has been used with root-knot nematodes (Meloidogynespp.), cyst nematodes (GloboderaandHeteroderaspp.), aphids, mites, and thrips. This protocol has also been used with mammalian hair follicles and sperm. For fungi, this protocol has been used with mycelia of different fungal genera. This protocol allows for standardization of DNA extraction, optimization with regard to tissue type, and improved repeatability across studies.