- DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a complex molecule that contains the genetic material of a cell.
- It defines the structure and the functions of a living organism. DNA is also responsible for heredity.
- DNA is composed of a series of nucleotides linked together.
- These nucleotides are basically made of a nitrogenous base, a molecule of sugar (deoxyribose), and a phosphate group.
- The sequence of nucleotides in the DNA molecule determines the hereditary traits of a cell.
- Nucleotides are packed to fit inside the cell. DNA takes the shape of a double helix, which, in addition to the DNA molecule, contains bound proteins.
- DNA double helix is enclosed inside a cell membrane in case the cell doesn’t have a nucleus like in prokaryotes, and inside the nuclear membrane in cells with nuclei like in eukaryotes.
- DNA has been the target of a lot of research.
- Investigation of the DNA structure and sequence in relation to diseases helped in finding out the molecular basis and cure for various diseases.
- DNA extraction methods study also allowed the production of many vaccines, hormones, and enzymes.
- DNA study was also very beneficial in the forensic/medico-legal entities.
- To study DNA it must be extracted out of the cell, hence; the DNA extraction technique is widely used in research labs.
DNA Extraction Steps
- Cell dissolution: In this stage, the cell and the nucleus are broken to extract a DNA sample using a lysis buffer.
- Precipitation: In this stage, proteins and impurities are removed from the sample.
- Purification: This stage involves isolating the DNA completely from the other substances, for a final eluted pure DNA sample preserved in a buffer.
