A simple method of obtaining lingual mucosal cells with a toothbrush for DNA extraction

In the post-genomic era, it is necessary to gain a better understanding of the relationship between genes and oral disease. For example, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are the most common form of DNA sequence variation and searching for SNPs covers many genes. To perform genetic testing such as testing for SNPs, DNA samples need to be obtained from patients. In the near future, genetic testing will become widespread as a chair-side procedure in general practice. It would be optimal to use a method that results in minimum bodily injury and that does not cause anxiety to patients. Here, we report a simple method of obtaining lingual mucosal cells with a toothbrush for extraction of DNA samples.