Quantitation of Dna from Wax-embedded Biopsy Tissues Using Two Different Methods

Abstract

This study compares DNA yield from formalin fixed biopsy embedded tissues as quantitated by both Quantitative Template Assay Technology (Q-TAT) and Real Time qPCR. Additionally, the study examines the possibility of the effect tissue type may have on DNA yield. Major tissue types examined include breast, colon, liver, and lung biopsies, all embedded in paraffin wax after formalin fixation, and all roughly ten years old. Biopsy samples were sliced in 10μm thick sections and extracted in sets of five with TaKaRa DEXPAT reagent, followed by quantitation with both Q-TAT and Real Time. The results show that the two quantitative methods produce significantly different results, and that tissue type does not have a statistically significant difference on DNA yield. Applications for both Q-TAT and Real Time are discussed, as they may each be preferred in different situations.