DNA Extraction Process
There are many ways to extract DNA from cells. All methods use three basic steps:
- Break open (lyse) the cells
- Separate the DNA from other cell parts
- Collect the pure DNA
By adding special chemicals to the cells, the cells break apart (or lyse). This releases the DNA from the nucleus. After completing this step what remains is mixture (slurry) of DNA, proteins and lipids.
The DNA is separated from other cell parts (protein and lipids) using sophisticated robotics. The extraction robot transfers the DNA mixture to tiny silica-based nano-beads (one billionth of a meter in size); the DNA sticks to the beads while the other cell parts are washed away – leaving pure DNA for testing.
The final step is elution (removing the DNA from the beads).The lab robot adds more chemicals, which releases the DNA from the beads. The released DNA is collected and ready for testing.
IDENTIGENE
DNA Testing Center: 2495 South West Temple | Salt Lake City, UT 84115
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