How is DNA Kept?
DNA, the blueprint of life, can be stored in various ways, each offering different advantages and disadvantages regarding preservation time and cost. The method chosen depends on the intended use and duration of storage.
- Freezers (-20°C and -80°C): This is a practical short-term solution for preserving DNA. While less effective than other methods, it can prevent degradation for months or even years. However, this method is not suitable for long-term preservation. ([Source: Storage of the sample at -20 °C and -80 °C is less effective than storage in vitreous state, but can provides a useful short-term solution. Liquid nitrogen storage preserves DNA quality over the course of decades, whereas storage at -20 °C and -80 °C can prevent degradation for months or years.])
Long-Term Storage:
-
Liquid Nitrogen: This is the gold standard for long-term DNA storage. Liquid nitrogen storage maintains DNA quality for decades, making it ideal for preserving valuable samples, such as those used in cold cases. ([Source: Liquid nitrogen storage preserves DNA quality over the course of decades, whereas storage at -20 °C and -80 °C can prevent degradation for months or years.]; [Source: A big key to solving cold cases, is, fittingly, cold storage, said OMRF President Stephen Prescott, MD.])
-
Other methods: Research is exploring innovative methods for DNA storage, such as using microchips for high-density 3D archival data storage at ultra-low cost. ([Source: GTRI researchers have developed a microchip for growing DNA strands that could provide high-density 3D archival data storage at ultra-low cost.]) Encapsulation with salt also shows promise for long-term stability. ([Source: Studies show that DNA properly encapsulated with a salt remains stable for…])
Legal and Forensic Considerations:
Law enforcement agencies utilize secure storage and databases like CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) and NDIS (National DNA Index System) to maintain DNA profiles for forensic purposes. ([Source: 14132) authorized the establishment of this National DNA Index. The DNA Act specifies the categories of data that may be maintained in NDIS…]) The specific regulations for storage and retention vary by jurisdiction. For example, Michigan's legislation mandates the permanent retention of DNA profiles. ([Source: The department shall permanently retain a DNA identification profile of an individual obtained from a sample in the manner prescribed by the department under…])
Maintaining DNA Methylation:
Beyond physical storage, maintaining the integrity of epigenetic information, such as DNA methylation patterns, is crucial for certain research applications. These patterns, crucial for gene regulation, must be faithfully maintained through cell division. ([Source: DNA methylation is a somatically heritable epigenetic mark that must be faithfully maintained through cell division.])
