DNA Bank Database

The RBG Kew DNA Bank contains over 36,000 samples of plant genomic DNA (as at the beginning of year 2009), all stored at -80°C. DNA samples can be ordered from Kew using this site. The fees assessed do not imply that DNA samples are being purchased, but rather this fee is meant to offset the cost of producing the sample and maintaining and shipping it. RBG Kew's standard terms of supply (see MTA form) restrict commercial use of the DNA supplied.

The great majority of these DNA samples are of high molecular weight and reasonable concentration. Some as noted in the comments column are somewhat degraded because the tissue from which they were extracted was not dried properly, whereas others are more dilute than desirable, but some taxa never produce much DNA. We thus make no claims about the quality or concentration of these samples nor how these samples can be used (degraded samples are not suitable for AFLP, for example). Unless otherwise noted in the 'Comments' column, samples have been cleaned on a caesium chloride/ethidium bromide gradient, so they are reasonably free of RNA and Taq-inhibitory chemistry, but in some cases further cleaning and concentration by means of a silica-based column may be necessary before amplification can be achieved. We are happy to advise about problems, and if degradation during shipment occurs we will replace such samples without further charge.

The amount of DNA sent is suitable for PCR-based techniques (typically about 25 µl). If you require a greater amount of DNA, this may be possible, but you should contact us to discuss this (DnaBank@kew.org). Use the search tool to put together a list of requirements. Should a sample be unavailable, you can request a sample to be extracted for you (follow the Extraction of new samples link to do this).