A high-throughput and cost-efficient DNA extraction protocol for the tree fruit crops of apple, sweet cherry, and peach relying on silica beads during tissue sampling

The basis of any marker-assisted seedling selection (MASS) scheme is having a high-throughput method of DNA extraction. To date, few high-throughput DNA extraction methods have been described for tree fruit. We describe a method that uses silica gel beads, which serve to both desiccate and grind leaf samples. This method provides a logistically flexible and time-efficient method for sample collection and routine production of PCR-quality DNA from apple, cherry, and peach. With a quick, non-laborious method of DNA extraction now being available, high-throughput MASS can be routinely conducted in breeding programs of apple, cherry, and peach to facilitate the development of superior cultivars.