DNA extraction and amplification from Giemsa-stained blood smears.

DNA extraction was attempted from Giemsa-stained blood smears on glass slides that had been stored for several years. High molecular weight DNA bands were clearly visible after electrophoresis when DNA was extracted from specimens stored up to 2 years. Specimens more than 4 years old demonstrated a smeared pattern, suggesting degeneration of the DNA, but they could be rescued by PCR amplification using primers of HLA-DQA1 genes. The recovery could be pursued even in 11-year-old specimens.