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Halo-Ed: Extreme Microbiology and
Astrobiology |
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DNA
Extraction
Many cells
have tough cell walls to protect them from their environment. DNA studies
require breaking open the cell in order to extract the DNA. Breaking down
cell walls often requires harsh chemical or physical methods, which are
technically challenging and frequently damage the DNA. However, with extreme
halophiles, like Halobacterium sp. NRC-1 the cells can be readily
broken open as the cell membrane is weakened easily with hypotonic solutions
(solutions possessing lower solute concentration than the interior of the cell,
e.g. pure water). The cell lysate that results contains RNA, proteins, and
most importantly for the purpose of this lab, DNA. When alcohol is added to
the cell lysate, DNA precipitates out of the solution in the form of long
fibrous molecules, which can be spooled by winding them around a stick. For
more information, see our DNA
extraction module for methods and further ideas. Two interesting questions for students to consider: 'What
sparked life on Earth? How did DNA become the genetic material?' We enjoy collaborating – let us know if you have ideas or
questions you would like to explore together by contacting the Halo-Ed
Team. For
Questions and Suggestions, contact the Halo-Ed Team |
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Copyright ©
Shiladitya DasSarma & Priya DasSarma |
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