cDNA shelf-life - (Sep/18/2011 )

Hi,

For how long can we store cDNA? I ran PCR with a cDNA that I synthesized in 2009 and it doesn't work. I have no more sample. I have to propagate more virus, extract RNA and synthesize new cDNA.

If cDNA is run through a clean up kit (any PCR or reaction cleanup kit should work) and stored in 1X TE at -20 degrees, I have used it for up to 5 years later. Alternatively, you can phenol:chloroform extract your reaction and perform an ethanol precipitation, then resuspend in TE.