Abstract: A low pH extraction medium with high salts, which avoids ionization and subsequent oxidation of phenolic compounds during tissue grinding and precipitation of large amounts of materials, were successfully used to obtain total DNA from Cathaya argyrophylla Chun et Kuang, Paeonia suffruticosa var. spontanea, Cimici fuga nanchuanensis Hsiao, Adenophora potaninii (Congeneric species with A. lobophylla) etc. The DNA yields, quality and purity were characterized. These isolated DNA could be used directly for RFLP and RAPD analysis which are useful as molecular genetic markers without sedimentation in cesium chloride gradient or column chromatography. A fast, inexpensive and reliable procedure has been developed for detecting the genetic diversity of endangered plants.

Key words: Isolation of total DNA, Low pH extraction medium, Digestion with restriction enzyme, RAPD