The quality of DNA extracted from liquid or dried blood is not adversely affected by storage at 4 degrees C for up to 24 h.

BACKGROUND: A consistent and stable source of DNA is an essential requirement for many Biobanks. An important pre-analytical variable is the delay between sample collection and sample processing. METHODS: Fresh blood samples (n = 80) were collected and either processed immediately or after storage for 24 h. The samples were either stored as liquid blood at 4 degrees C or as dried blood spots at ambient temperature on three types of paper-based storage media. The quality of the DNA extracted from the samples was measured. RESULTS: No difference was observed between fresh and stored blood samples. CONCLUSIONS: The quality of DNA extracted from liquid or dried blood is not adversely affected by storage at 4 degrees C for up to 24 h.