FTA DNA Collection and Storage

FTA Cards utilize patented Whatman FTA technology that simplifies the handling and processing of nucleic acids.

Whatman FTA devices format

Electron micrograph showing  DNA
entrapped within the FTA matrix
(Magnification x 10,000)

• Forensics
• Transgenic identification
• Transfusion medicine
• Plasmid screening
• Food and agriculture testing
• Drug discovery
• Genomics
• STR analysis
• Animal identification
• Whole genome amplification
• Molecular biology

Capture nucleic acids in one easy step
Simply apply your sample to the FTA Card. Cell membranes and organelles are lysed and the released nucleic acids are entrapped in the fibers of the matrix. The nucleic acids remain immobilized and are preserved for transport, immediate processing or long-term room temperature storage.

Since captured nucleic acids are preserved, FTA Cards facilitate sample collection in remote locations and simplify sample transport. For example, you can collect samples in the field without worrying about immediate refrigeration. Ship your samples back to the laboratory without expensive special handling or dry ice and process at your convenience.

Indicating FTA Cards are recommended for colorless samples. These FTA Cards change from pink to white when sample is applied, verifying the location of the sample. FTA Cards can be used with virtually any sample type:

• Blood
• Cultured cells 
• Buccal cells
• Plasmids
• Solid tissue

Captured nucleic acid is ready for downstream applications in less than 30 minutes
Captured nucleic acids are ready for purification when you are. Just take a punch from the FTA Card, wash with FTA Purification Reagent and rinse with TE^-1 (10mM Tris-HCI, 0.1 mM EDTA, pH 8) buffer. DNA on the washed punch is ready to use in applications such as PCR, SNP analysis, and real-time PCR. Since PCR products remain in solution, the punch can be used for multiple amplifications.

Store nucleic acids at room temperature for years
Genomic DNA stored on FTA Cards at room temperature for over 17 years (and counting) has been successfully amplified by PCR. RNA, being chemically less stable than DNA, is best analyzed upon return of samples to the laboratory. Frozen storage is helpful for RNA preservation.

Sample integrity is optimized when FTA Cards are stored in a Multi-Barrier Pouch with a Desiccant Packet.

FTA Cards offer a compact room-temperature storage system that reduces the need for precious freezer space.

FTA Classic Card 
Four sample areas for application of up to 500 µl whole blood or 100 µl plant homogenate per card. Convenient for multiple applications of the same specimen or collection of multiple animal or plant samples on one card. Different samples can be processed independently.

Indicating FTA Classic Card
Same as FTA Classic Card with a color indicator that changes from pink to white when sample is applied. Recommended for use with colorless samples such as buccal or cultured cells.

FTA Mini Card
Two sample areas for application of up to 250 µl whole blood or 50 µl plant homogenate per card. Convenient for protocols that require different locations for testing and archiving samples. Different samples can be processed independently.

Indicating FTA Mini Card
Same as FTA Mini Card with a color indicator that changes from pink to white when sample is applied. Recommended for use with clear samples such as buccal or cultured cells.

FTA Micro Card 
One sample area for application of up to 125 µl whole blood or 25 µl plant homogenate per card. Recommended when only one sample is needed.

Indicating FTA Micro Card
Same as FTA Micro Card with a color indicator that changes from pink to white when sample is applied. Recommended for use with clear samples such as buccal or cultured cells.

FTA Gene Card
An FTA Card enclosed in a rigid card frame. Three sample areas for application of up to 225 µl whole blood or 30 µl plant homogenate per card. Can be utilized in many automatic dispensing/pipetting systems when used with the FTA Gene Card Tray (catalog number WB100030).

FTA Kit
Includes: 25 FTA Micro Cards, 2 x 25 ml FTA Purification Reagent, 2 x Harris Uni-Core Punch with cutting mat, instructions.

FTA Starter Pack
Includes: 1 FTA Classic Card, 1 FTA Mini Card, 1 FTA Micro Card, 1 Indicating FTA Mini Card, 1 FTA Indicating Micro Card, 2 Foam-tipped Applicator Swabs, 1 Multi-barrier Pouch with Desiccant, 25 ml FTA Purification Reagent, 2 Harris Uni-Core Punches with cutting mat, instructions.

EasiCollect
EasiCollect is a device for collecting buccal cells and for transfer to FTA Cards for DNA capture. Indicating FTA Cards in a 2" x 2" format fits automated sample punching equipment for efficient sample processing. A novel foam applicator collects cells for an all-in-one transfer to FTA Cards for even distribution of cells across the sample area.

Collect, Transport, Archive and Isolate Nucleic Acids – All at Room Temperature