Characteristics of genetic markers: Quantity of DNA required

Because only small quantities of template DNA (5-100 ng per reaction) are required, techniques which are based on the PCR are currently preferred. Although RFLPs and minisatellites require the largest amount of DNA (5-10 µg per reaction), Southern blot membranes may be probed several times. Intermediate quantities of DNA are needed for AFLP-analysis (0.3-1 µg per reaction) because restriction of the DNA precedes the PCR reaction. In general, consideration should be given to the use of PCR-based markers if only small amounts of DNA can be obtained.