We have successfully isolated HMW DNA from A. aegypti (15 mg) using the standard tissue protocol. Though we have not internally validated any other insects at this time, others have successfully processed flies, moths, arthropods (scorpion) and some nematodes. The following considerations may be helpful:
- Work with fresh samples if possible; freeze thawing can activate nuclease activity
- When working with larger insects, we recommend removing the gut material (which is rich in nucleases) before homogenization
- Thorough homogenization with pestle or rotor stator homogenizer is essential, and quickly adding the lysis buffer (which removes nucleases) after homogenization is important
