Isolation of milligram quantities of nuclear DNA from tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum), a plant containing high levels of polyphenolic compounds

We have developed a protocol for isolating milligram quantities of highly purified DNA from tomato nuclei. The protocol utilizes fresh seedlings or leaves without freezing. Tissues are treated with ethyl ether, thoroughly washed, and placed in a buffer containing the nuclear-stabilizing agent 2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol. Nuclei are Liberated from tomato cells by homogenization in a Waring blender. The interaction of nuclear DNA with oxidized polyphenols is inhibited by compounds that adsorb polyphenols or prevent oxidation reactions. Chloroplasts and mitochondria are preferentially eliminated with Triton X-100. Nuclei are concentrated using a Percoll gradient and lysed with SDS. DNA is subsequently purified by RNase and protease digestions and phenol/chloroform extractions. The isolated DNA is essentially free of polyphenols and other major contaminants based upon its lack of coloration, A(260)/A(280) ratio, digestibility with restriction enzymes, melting profile, and reassociation properties.