Before conducting a PCR reaction, cloning experiment or DNA sequencing it is critical click this link now to have a high-quality DNA that is free of contaminants, such as debris, proteins and RNA. Purifying DNA is also referred as DNA Isolation, and is an essential step in molecular biology. This article will teach you the fundamentals of DNA extraction and how to optimize it for better results.
The first step in the DNA purification process is to prepare a solution which comprises a mixture of water and an alkaline buffer. This buffer makes DNA soluble, so it is easy to separate from the other components of the sample. After the DNA is placed in an alkaline and water solution, it’s treated by chaotropic salts or detergents to break down cell membranes and nuclei, and release the DNA (cell lysis). RNase is also added to remove any contaminating RNA from the sample.
DNA is then separated from other cell components like proteins and lipids, using organic solvents such as phenol and chloroform. After the DNA has been removed from lipids or proteins, it can be precipitated with alcohol or rubbing alcohol.
The purity of the DNA can then be assessed by spectrophotometry or gel electrophoresis. A good quality DNA sample should have an absorbance ranging from 260 nm to 280 nm of