S E Q U E N C I N G S E R V I C E

Submitting Mitochondrial DNA Samples

Sequencing of the mt control region is available free of charge to high school and college classes. However, we can only sequence PCR products obtained using the primer sequences specified in the Genetic Origins protocol (see Recipes), Carolina Biological Supply Company Kits (21-1236/1238) or other compatible protocol using the specified primer set.

In order to submit samples for sequencing, a Submission Form (linked below) must be sent prior to receipt of your samples at the DNALC. Fill out and print a separate submission form for each sample set. At the same time, label each sample set from 1 to the highest number needed.
Example: you have 3 sets of samples: for each you will generate 3 Sequence Service submission forms. And each set is numbered from 1 to <N>.

For each student sample, provide a 10-15 µl aliquot of the PCR product in a tightly sealed, clean 0.2 or 0.5 ml PCR test tube. Use tape to clearly label each tube with a sequential number beginning with "1." Do not skip numbers, do not repeat numbers, do not use letters, and do not include any identifying information such as student name or initials. If we cannot read the numbers, or if the numbers are not in sequential order, we will not be able to track the progress of your samples.

DNA sequencing is expensive! Please print a photograph of your agarose gel electrophoresis to confirm that a 440 bp product was visualized for each sample. If certain samples did not amplify and you are not including them in this mailing, you must renumber all your tubes, so that no numbers are skipped.

Your samples, a completed Submission Form, and the gel photograph should be packaged in a zip-top plastic bag and placed in a Styrofoam box with cooler pack for overnight shipment to the DNA Learning Center. There is no one to receive packages on the weekends. Do not send packages on Fridays.

Sequencing and posting data to the Genetic Origins site typically takes between 2 and 3 weeks. All sequencing is performed by high school and college student interns at the Dolan DNA Learning Center. It is difficult to accurately predict when sample sequences will be posted to the web site. You will be notified by email when the sequences are posted. It is recommended that you plan for ample time for the sequences to be posted. Near the end of each school semester, and especially around the time of the AP biology exam, sample processing slows down due to increased demand. Submissions received near the end of the school year may not be posted until the summer.
( For samples sent during the months of November and March, please allow up to 3 weeks for processing, due to the high number of samples that we are receiving.)

For questions, contact DNA Learning Center Sequencing Service at dnalcseq@cshl.edu.

This free sequencing service is made possible by grants from Biogen Idec Foundation and The William A. Haseltine Foundation.