DNA preserved

Definition

Describing a specimen, tissue, or sample in which nucleic acids remain sufficiently intact for molecular analysis, typically through controlled desiccation, freezing, ethanol storage, or other stabilization methods that inhibit nuclease activity and chemical degradation. In entomological and arachnological collections, DNA preservation status determines suitability for phylogenetic studies, population genetics, barcoding, and ancient DNA research; the term often implies deliberate protocol adherence rather than incidental survival of genetic material.

Etymology

Example

A DNA preserved spider specimen stored in 95% ethanol at −20°C yielded complete mitochondrial COI sequences for species delimitation, whereas a congeneric dried museum specimen of similar age produced only degraded fragments.

Synonyms

• genetically intact
• molecular-grade

Related Terms

• voucher specimen
• cryopreservation
• formalin-fixed
• ancient DNA
• barcoding
• Type specimen
• ethanol preservation
• silica desiccation
• degraded DNA

Usage Notes

Contrast with 'DNA degraded' or 'DNA poor,' which describe specimens unsuitable for routine PCR or sequencing. 'DNA preserved' is often used relatively: a specimen may be adequately preserved for mitochondrial markers but not for nuclear genome assembly. The term does not specify which preservation method was used; additional descriptors (e.g., 'flash-frozen,' 'silica-dried') clarify protocol. In museum contexts, 'DNA preserved' sometimes distinguishes specimens collected with molecular analysis in mind from traditional pinned or fluid-preserved material not processed for genetic work.