QuickConc: A rapid, efficient, and power-free eDNA concentration method
with cationic-assisted capture
Abstract
Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis is effective for non-invasive
biodiversity monitoring, as it reveals species distribution and
abundance without ecosystem disruption. Concentration, extraction, and
preservation are three essential steps in the eDNA analysis process.
Among these, the concentration of eDNA has attracted significant
research interest, particularly due to the variability of water samples
used in studies. To date, various methods for eDNA concentration have
been developed, including glass fiber filtration, Sterivex filters, and
passive samplers; however, no single method is universally applicable
because of the variabilities of eDNA presence and water characteristics
including turbidity levels. Therefore, the development of alternative
eDNA concentration methods is crucial for advancing eDNA research. This
study introduces QuickConc, a novel nucleic acid capture method that
combines benzalkonium chloride (BAC) with dispersed glass fibers. Our
results indicate that this approach enhances eDNA capture sensitivity by
likely improving the interaction between silica and eDNA. QuickConc was
tested in three environments, using metabarcoding and qPCR.
Species-specific qPCR results showed that QuickConc detected 2 to 3
times higher copy numbers compared to the glass fiber filter and
Sterivex methods. Metabarcoding analyses using the MiFish method
revealed that the number of fish species detected in river water was
higher with QuickConc, compared to other methods, while in sea water,
the number of fish species was at a similar level compared to other
methods. QuickConc offers new options for eDNA analysis, providing a
more sensitive and easily deployable approach to biodiversity monitoring
and conservation strategies.