dna extraction Flashcards
why are strawberries extracted?
strawberries are well-suited for DNA extraction due to the fact that strawberry cells are octoploid. this means that they have eight copies of every chromosome. this large number of chromosomes results in a large quantity of extractable DNA.
what consists of the DNA extraction fluid and why?
DNA extraction fluid consists of dishwashing detergent and salt.
1) dishwashing detergent is used because it helps to break down the phospholipid bilayers of the cell membrane and nuclear membrane. this releases DNA from the cells.
2) salt is used to break up the protein chains that bind around the nucleic acids. it neutralises DNA molecules and makes them less hydrophilic, rendering them insoluble in water thus making the extraction process easier
what is the function of cold isopropyl alcohol in DNA extraction?
the DNA clumps and form a visible white precipitate. It’s important to use cold alcohol because it allows a larger amount of DNA to be extracted. If the alcohol is too warm, it may cause the DNA to denature [bold], or break down.
