Lab 13 DNA Extraction Experiment

Flashcards summarizing key terms and processes involved in DNA extraction and fingerprinting experiments.

Extraction solution

Detergent that disrupts cell membrane and allows cell contents to leak out.

Protease

Solution that degrades proteins and DNA damaging enzymes, helping to separate proteins from nucleic acids.

Cold alcohol

Causes DNA molecules to precipitate (clump together).

DNA fingerprinting

A unique identifier for individuals, used for identification purposes.

Polymorphic regions

Stretches of DNA that are highly variable between individuals.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

A method used to amplify polymorphic regions of DNA.

Restriction enzymes

Enzymes that recognize specific DNA sequences and cut the DNA to produce fragments.

Gel Electrophoresis

Technique used to separate DNA fragments into bands based on their size.

Agarose gel

Medium through which DNA is separated during gel electrophoresis.

Negative charge of DNA

Causes DNA to move through gel towards the positive end during electrophoresis.