Rapid and Simple DNA Extraction Method for Polymerase Chain Reaction Using Contact Lens Solutions

DNA extraction is an important step for DNA amplification by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), but existing methods often require complex procedures, expensive commercial kits, or harmful organic solvents. This study addresses current issues related to safety, cost, and processing time in DNA extraction by presenting a rapid and cost-effective DNA extraction method that utilizes commercially available contact lens solutions (CLS). A simple protocol involving tissue crushing, heat treatment and centrifugation was developed to extract DNA from blood-sucking mosquito Aedes albopictus Skuse, 1894. This process is completed within 30 minutes and requires no specialized equipment, making it highly accessible. The quality of the extracted DNA was sufficient for the amplification of 700 bp of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene segment. The proposed method showed superior efficiency compared to the extraction control in which insect samples were treated with sterile water, and clear PCR amplification products were obtained in all DNA samples extracted by CLS. These results suggest that protein-degrading agents or surfactants in CLS may function in DNA isolation. Moreover, since CLS are designed for direct ocular contact, the safety of this method is an advantage over common extraction techniques that use organic solvents. Although the present study focused on insect specimens, the method could potentially be widely applied to various types of biological specimens. By providing a low-cost, rapid, and user-friendly DNA extraction technique, this method can substantially reduce barriers in DNA extraction for PCR. This method may be a preferable option for school educators seeking safe and time-efficient experimental approaches.