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ARS Home » Northeast Area » Geneva, New York » Grape Genetics Research Unit (GGRU) » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #358753
Research Project: Grapevine Genetics, Genomics and Molecular Breeding for Disease Resistance, Abiotic Stress Tolerance, and Improved Fruit Quality

Location: Grape Genetics Research Unit (GGRU)

Title: Extracing DNA from the grape berry surface, beginning in the vineyard

Author
item HALL, MEGAN - Cornell University
item Cadle-Davidson, Lance
item FANG, ZHIWEI - University Of Missouri
item WILCOX, WAYNE - Cornell University

Submitted to: Heliyon
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/2/2019
Publication Date: 10/30/2019
Citation: Hall, M., Cadle Davidson, L.E., Fang, Z., Wilcox, W. 2019. Extracing DNA from the grape berry surface, beginning in the vineyard. Heliyon. 5 (10).

Interpretive Summary: Isolating DNA from fungi and bacteria on the surface of a grape berry is difficult because they stick to the grape berry surface. We developed a DNA extraction procedure that starts in the vineyard and removes the fungi and bacteria from the grape berry surface while traveling to the lab. This method efficiently extracts DNA from fungi and bacteria on the surface of the grape. It is cost effective, time efficient, and uses common laboratory chemicals with low toxicity.

Technical Abstract: Isolating DNA from microbes on the surface of a grape berry is a challenge due to their adhesion to the thick berry skin and cuticle, making studies of the grape microbiome challenging. We developed a field-to-lab DNA extraction procedure that starts in the vineyard, disrupts the grape berry surface while en route to the lab through agitation, and efficiently extracts microbial DNA from the surface of the grape. It is cost effective and utilizes commonly available laboratory chemicals with low toxicity. This protocol allows researchers to extract DNA from the grape berry surface in the field, therefore undergoing minimal manipulation of those microbiomes before DNA extraction.