Ask A Scientist Molecular Biology Archive

name        prudence
status       other
location     N/A

Question -   During extraction of a DNA, why is it that sodium
dodecyl sulphate(SDS) is added to the extraction buffer?
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SDS is a detergent. It (or a close relative, sodium lauryl sulfate, SLS) is
often found in everyday shampoos, etc., where it solubilizes grease and
oils. In the DNA preparation, it breaks up the lipids in the membranes, to
free the DNA from the cell.

Paul Mahoney, PhD
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