Comparison of RNA & DNA Isolation
Molecular Diagnostics
(MDx) Review 549
Method Similar. Lysis of cells, isolation by phenol-chloroform extraction or binding to silica, precipitation in alcohol.
Stability RNA less stable. Process specimens promptly. Can be stored suspended in ethanol for several months at –20°C or
long term at –70°C.
Contamination RNA more susceptible to degradation. Use RNase decontamination solution to clean gloves, benchtops, equipment;
RNase-free reagents & plasticware; nuclease-free water; DNase I to digest DNA.