Challenging sample types include formalin-fixed-paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue samples, plasma or serum containing circulating cell-free DNA, forensic samples, or any source where the sample quantity is limiting.
Nucleic acid purification methods may be designed to isolate DNA or RNA for a wide range of samples or may be specific for an individual sample type. Most DNA purification kits can handle numerous sample types with minor protocol variations to ensure complete lysis of the starting material. Specialized purification kits may be needed for more challenging sample types that contain degraded DNA or a have low concentration of the target nucleic acid. Challenging sample types include formalin-fixed-paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue samples, plasma or serum containing circulating cell-free DNA, forensic samples, or any source where the sample quantity is limiting.