For different cell types, there are different types of ribonucleic acid (RNA) purification kits. There are kits for working with tissues and cells from mammals, plants, and viruses, for example. The best RNA purification kits can accommodate all sizes and cell types because different RNA species correspond to different sizes. Complete cellular disruption and RNA isolation prevent RNA purification from succeeding.
When using an RNA purification kit, the goal is to isolate intact strands of RNA that can be used in molecular genetics experiments. Researchers want to collect as many high-quality, intact RNA macromolecules as possible. In the RNA isolation process, complete cellular disruption is a crucial first step. The presence of any RNA strands still trapped inside the cell will limit subsequent RNA purification. Depending on the cell type, different RNA purification kits may direct a specific disruption method.
RNA can be extracted from mammals, plants, and viruses, among other living things. The backbone of RNA is made up of nucleotides, and the overall size of the molecule can vary. For genetic studies, the genetic information contained in mitochondrial RNA, ribosomal RNA, and transfer RNA is commonly used. These RNA types are denoted by the letters mRNA, rRNA, and tRNA. A tmRNA strand has both mRNA and tRNA characteristics.
Following RNA isolation, purification of RNA effectively prepares the sample for reaction. A binding agent that is specifically designed to bond with RNA molecules is usually included in RNA purification kits. Prior to analysis, any remaining non-RNA sample contents are washed away, leaving only RNA in the sample tube.
The number of reactions included in each RNA purification kit will vary. The reaction capacity can range from ten to one hundred or more. The majority of RNA purification kits come with some sort of indication of sample yield. Electrophoresis is used to obtain the results of RNA purification. The higher the yield, the better the kit will perform in general.
The best RNA purification kits are free of hazardous chemicals, can isolate RNA from a single cell, and can isolate a wide range of RNA species. Because this step is performed separately from the purification process, RNA purification kits like these may not include the components required for cellular disruption and RNA isolation. There are also specialized RNA purification kits for plant tissues, viral cells, and bacteria.