DNA isolation

DNA can be extracted from any cell. First, the cell needs to be disrupted (a process also known as cell lysis). This can be achieved using chemical and physical methods, such as grinding or sonicating the cell. Once the cell is disrupted, we need to remove the membrane lipids by adding surfactants or detergents, digest the protein using protease, and remove RNA using RNase. Next, we can precipitate the DNA (for example, using ethanol) and isolate it from all other materials present in a cell. There are several methods to extract DNA; one of the most popular methods is the use of phenol and chloroform method; however, newer methods that are easier and safer have been developed, for example, using column separation.