Dna Extraction Essay

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DNA EXTRACTION FROM KIWI INTRODUCTION DNA is present in the cells of all living organisms. This procedure is designed to extract DNA from kiwi in sufficient quantity to be seen and spooled. It is based on the use of household equipment and supplies. STUDENT INSTRUCTIONS The process of extracting DNA from a cell is the first step for many laboratory procedures in biotechnology. The scientist must be able to separate DNA from the unwanted substances of the cell gently enough so that the DNA is not broken up. Your teacher has already prepared a solution for you, made of kiwi treated with salt, distilled water and dishwashing detergent or shampoo. The salt allows the DNA to precipitate out of a cold alcohol solution. The detergent causes the cell membrane to break down by dissolving the lipids and proteins of the cell and disrupting the bonds that hold the cell membrane together. The detergent then forms complexes with these lipids and proteins, causing them to precipitate out of solution. PROCEDURE 1. Add cold alcohol to the test tube to create an alcohol layer on top of about 1 cm. For best results, the alcohol should be as cold as possible. The alcohol can be added to the solution in at least three ways. (a) Put about 1 cm of alcohol into the bottom of a test tube and add the kiwi solution. (b) Fill a pasteur pipette with alcohol, put it to bottom of the test tube, and release the alcohol. (c) Slowly pour the alcohol down the inside of the test tube with a pasteur pipette or medicine dropper. DNA is not soluble in alcohol. When alcohol is added to the mixture, the components of the mixture, except for DNA, stay in solution while the DNA precipitates out into the alcohol layer. 2. Let the solution sit for 2 to 3 minutes without disturbing it. It is important not to shake the test tube. You can watch the white DNA precipitate out into the

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