Scientists and researchers may not need to collect DNA from surfaces in the future. According to Focus on Science, researchers at Queen Mary University of London have shown that it is possible to collect “environmental DNA” (eDNA) from the air.
The team used a peristaltic pump combined with pressure filters to collect DNA samples from naked mole rat for five to 20 minutes and then used standard kits to find and sequence genes in the resulting samples. This method not only located the DNA of the mole rats (both in their homes and in the living room in general), but it also captured part of the human DNA at the same time.
Lead author, Dr. Elizabeth Claire, said the work was originally designed to help conservationists and ecologists study biological environments. With sufficient development, however, it could be used for much more. Forensic units can take DNA from the air to determine if a suspect was present at a crime scene. It can also be useful in medicine – virologists and epidemiologists can understand how airborne viruses (like the one behind COVID-19) spread.
Any practical uses are still far away. The research unit is already working with private companies like NatureMetrics to develop practical applications. It’s easy to see the limitations – you want to use this in areas where you know what DNA can expect, so it may not work well in crowded rooms or outdoors. However, just having this option can be very useful in situations where surfaces do not provide clear answers.