Sample Requirements and Shipping Instructions for Phage
Sequencing at the University of Pittsburgh
GUIDELINES FOR QC OF SAMPLES
While the SEA Resource Guide protocol for assaying genomic DNA quality is effective for QC, we do not
necessarily require all samples to be run on a gel alongside Lambda standards. We ask that as a minimum
requirement, you send agarose gel pictures of your top three choices for sequencing alongside any standard (1kb
ladder, Lambda, etc.), as long as you provide a key to reading the standard and information on amounts added. If
your DNA is resuspended in a buffer containing EDTA, perform an ethanol precipitation BEFORE preparing
your QC gel. However, please strictly adhere to the requirements below, as improper preparation of samples can
result in sequencing failures!
DNA REQUIREMENTS
At least 10 μg (micrograms) of genomic DNA per sample. More is better if possible.
Up to 3 samples may be submitted. If sending more than one sample, indicate order of preference.
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Resuspended in 10 mM Tris, pH 7.5 – 8.5 or nuclease-free water, at ≥ 100 ng/μl.
IMPORTANT: NO EDTA SHOULD BE IN THE FINAL SAMPLE, MEANING RESUSPENDING DNA IN
TE (Tris-EDTA) IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. EDTA interferes with sequencing sample prep. A sample protocol for
ethanol precipitation of genomic DNA has been included in this document. If you have resuspended your DNA
in a buffer containing EDTA, follow the protocol to purify the sample.
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Agarose gel picture of all samples. Each sample submitted should show a clear, bright band and no degradation
or contamination.
GUIDELINES FOR PACKAGING SAMPLES
Samples should be placed in eppendorf tubes and sealed with parafilm for security . Label the tubes clearly
with the following information:
PHAGE NAME

DATE DNA CONCENTRATION RESUSPENSION BUFFER
Render the tubes immobile in packaging and ship in an insulated container with icepacks.
GUIDELINES FOR SHIPPING SAMPLES
Please ship on Monday through Thursday for overnight delivery. Avoid shipping Fridays or preceding a holiday.
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Shipping Address:
PBI Genome Center ATTN: Charlie Bowman 344 Crawford Hall 4249 Fifth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15260
Questions and clarification requests should be addressed to:
Charlie Bowman
cab106@pitt.edu
412-624-4313