Analysis of DNA from natural history museum collections.

Genetic data derived from museum collections have an important role in systematics, conservation biology, ecology and medicine. Technical advances in molecular biology are increasing the range of material in collections amenable to such analysis. While the very diversity of natural history collections sometimes makes generalisations difficult, classes of extraction procedures and precautions against contamination can be described. Destructive sampling of specimens for genetic studies raises a number of institutional issues, such as granting of permission to use particular specimens and the return of DNA to the museum housing the specimens. Molecular biology is seen as further enhancing the value of collections.