Methods and compositions for extraction and storage of nucleic acids

An RNA extraction matrix comprising:

• a protein denaturant comprising a chaotropic agent, a detergent or combinations thereof;
• and
• an acid or acid-titrated buffer reagent impregnated therein in a dry state,
• wherein the matrix is a porous non-dissolvable dry material configured to provide a pH in a range from 3 to 6 upon hydration for extracting RNA and stabilizing the extracted RNA with a RIN of at least 4, wherein the matrix comprises cellulose, cellulose acetate, glass fiber or combinations thereof.

An RNA extraction matrix comprising:

• a protein denaturant comprising a chaotropic agent, a detergent or combinations thereof;
• an acid or acid-titrated buffer reagent;
• and
• an RNase inhibitor comprising a triphosphate salt or pyrophosphate salt impregnated therein in a dry state, wherein the matrix comprises a porous non-dissolvable dry material configured to provide a pH between 3 to 6 upon hydration and stabilize RNA with a RIN value of at least 4, wherein the matrix comprises cellulose, cellulose acetate, glass fiber or combinations thereof.

A method for extracting and storing nucleic acids from a sample, comprising:

• providing the sample on a dry non-dissolvable solid matrix comprising;
• a protein denaturant;
• and
• an acid or acid-titrated buffer reagent;
• generating an acidic pH upon hydration for extraction of nucleic acids from the sample, where the acidic pH is in a range from 3 to 6;
• drying the matrix comprising the extracted nucleic acids;
• and
• storing the extracted nucleic acids on the matrix in a substantially dry state at ambient temperature, wherein the matrix comprises cellulose, cellulose acetate, glass fiber or combinations thereof.