Dr. Ajai Kumar Sonkar Leads the Way in Non-Invasive Genetic Innovation
Sri Vijay Puram, July 13: In a landmark scientific achievement that underscores global collaboration and innovation, renowned Indian scientist Dr. Ajai Kumar Sonkar has led the development of a novel, non-invasive DNA extraction method for bivalve mollusks—marking a transformative step forward in marine biology, conservation genetics, and forensic research.
This cutting-edge technique is the result of a prestigious international research collaboration between Dr. Ajai Kumar Sonkar, an independent biologist recognized for his groundbreaking contributions in pearl science and marine biotechnology, and the Forensic Genetics Department at the Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Switzerland—a global leader in DNA-based forensic and ecological studies.
Recently published in the respected journal MethodsX, the new method allows researchers to collect high-quality DNAfrom marine bivalves—such as oysters and clams—using nothing more than a cosmetic cotton swab and Chelex resin. Remarkably simple yet scientifically robust, the technique eliminates the need for invasive procedures, expensive lab kits, hazardous chemicals, or highend laboratory infrastructure.
Costing less than $0.25 per sample, the method is accessible, field-ready, and designed for ease of use—even in the most remote or resource-limited environments. It empowers scientists, aquaculturists, and conservationists worldwide to conduct genetic analyses that were previously difficult or impossible without harming the organisms.
In a joint statement, Dr. Ajai Kumar Sonkar and Dr. Bertalan Lendvay of the University of Zurich emphasized the ecological and ethical value of this innovation:
“Traditional DNA sampling techniques are often invasive and can cause considerable stress to the animals. Our goal was to provide a practical, affordable, and non-destructive alternative. This method adheres fully to the globally recognized 3R principles—Replace, Reduce, Refine—and ensures the welfare of the species under study.”
This method was successfully validated on Pinctada margaritifera and Pinctada maxima—two commercially and ecologically significant pearl oyster species—using samples collected from diverse regions including the Seychelles, Hawaii, Myanmar, and India’s Andaman Islands. The extracted DNA yielded clear and reliable genetic profiles, enabling accurate identification and classification of natural populations. This advancement not only paves the way for biodiversity monitoring and conservation genomics but also supports aquaculture management and the authentication of natural pearls.
This achievement reinforces the idea that frontline scientific innovation need not be restricted to expensive laboratories. As Dr. Sonkar notes, “With this method, we demonstrate that world-class science can be both ethical and affordable. It is a testament to how scientific excellence can emerge through collaboration and vision, regardless of financial constraints.”
The research team working alongside Dr. Ajai includes internationally respected scientists: Dr. Bertalan Lendvay, Maria Haws, Tay Zar Lin, Thet Tin Nyunt, Marie Rose, and Dr. Nadja V. Morf—together forming a global network committed to ethical marine research and environmental stewardship.
This development is not just a scientific advance—it is a paradigm shift in how DNA is collected in marine research. With vast implications for conservation biology, pearl science, aquaculture, and sustainable ocean practices, this method stands as a milestone innovation led by India’s distinguished marine biologist, Dr. Ajai Kumar Sonkar, in partnership with one of Europe’s most esteemed forensic institutions.