https://mpsciences.com/2021/04/01/types-of-science-products-available/
DNA purification is an important step in the sample preparation process. It removes enzymes and salts from samples that have been lysed, or PCR products, prior sequencing and cloning. It also eliminates unwanted PCR-induced artefacts like primer dimers and nucleotides not integrated. DNA purification is an essential step in molecular biology and requires careful planning to produce top-quality, reliable results.
There are numerous approaches to eliminating DNA. The most common methods for DNA isolation include a myriad of steps, like leukocyte separation or red blood cell lysis to eliminate heme protein inhibitors of the PCR reaction. They also include deproteinization, RNAse treatment, precipitation of isopropanol and alcohol, and then DNA elimination. These protocols require specialized equipment, like an electrophoresis device and biosafety cabinets due the intercalating dyes used in electrophoresis gels.
Other methods for DNA purification utilize spin columns or 96-well filter plates to separate particles that are contaminated by adhering to the surface. These methods can be extremely laborious, especially when working with large numbers of samples or when the columns have to be refilled manually with new chemicals.
Dipsticks cut down the number of sample processing steps from six to three. They bind nucleic acids using waxy cellulose-based materials and then release them when water is present. This method is particularly effective in low-resource areas, like remote field sites and teaching laboratories. Its simplicity and speed (30 s for each sample) is a great fit for molecular diagnostics such as diagnosis, genotype screening and heterozygosity testing.