Optimization of DNA extraction in Bursera using the CTAB protocol and comparison with commercial methods

Iris Cruz-Larios, Martha Hernández-Rodríguez, Alejandra Moreno-Letelier

Abstract


Background. DNA extraction from plant species with high levels of secondary metabolites poses a major technical challenge, particularly in the genus Bursera, where substances such as tannins, terpenes, and resins compromise DNA purity and integrity. This limits genomic and conservation research in endemic Mexican species. Objective.
To develop and standardize a CTAB-based DNA extraction protocol tailored to the chemical properties of Bursera linanoe and to compare its performance with widely used commercial kits. Methodology.
Three commercial kits and two CTAB-based protocols (Doyle & Doyle and Saghai-Maroof) were tested using leaf tissue from Bursera linanoe. DNA yield, purity (A260/280 and A260/230), and integrity were assessed via spectrophotometry and agarose gel electrophoresis. Results.
The optimized CTAB protocol yielded high-quality DNA (average 310.56 ng µL-1), with purity ratios in the optimal range for molecular applications. In contrast, commercial kits yielded low DNA concentrations or failed to recover detectable material, highlighting their inefficiency in tissues rich in secondary metabolites. Implications. The observed variability and DNA absence in some samples emphasize the need to tailor extraction protocols to the specific chemistry of plant tissues. The optimized method offers a valuable approach for similar species and supports future genomic and conservation studies. Conclusion.
The modified CTAB protocol outperforms commercial methods for DNA extraction in Bursera linanoe.

Keywords


linaloe; DNA extraction; CTAB protocol; secondary metabolites; DNA quality; plant genomics.

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References


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URN: http://www.revista.ccba.uady.mx/urn:ISSN:1870-0462-tsaes.v29i2.64769

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.56369/tsaes.6476

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Copyright (c) 2026 Iris Cruz-Larios, Martha Hernández-Rodríguez, ALEJANDRA MORENO-LETELIER

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