Ancient DNA Extraction from Soils and Sediments

DNA contained in soils and sediments can provide novel insights into past environments and ecosystems. In this chapter, I describe an efficient and effective technique to extract total DNA from sediments in a manner that minimizes the coextraction of PCR-inhibitory compounds. I describe two different approaches: one that is suitable for large (up to 10 g wet weight) amounts of substrate, and a second that is more appropriate for small (up to 0.5 g) amounts of substrate. Finally, I discuss some of the obstacles that may be encountered in the process of extracting DNA from soils and sediments and suggest approaches to circumvent some common problems.