more RNA storage questions - (Jan/06/2006 )

I am thinking of storing my RNA as a precipitate. Does anyone know if this is advisable? Is it better or worse than storing it in solution? I normally store in solution at -80.

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hi it's better to store it in absolute ethanol than in precipitate

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Fred is correct.
However, I have stored RNA at -80 for years in both water and TE and seen no degradation.

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Same here. I have stored RNA in NFW for more than a year and so far no problem.

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NFW?

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Hi..
I usaully store it in TE -80 C for months

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nfw=nuclease free water, I think

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right amikins

i've experienced other storage :
i resuspend RNA un deionized formamide. tip that can be helpful if you are not sure of your RNAse free water. But in this case, you have to precipitate RNAs if you want to perfom a RTPCR...

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I use RNA secure from Ambion diluted in 10mM Tris. This solution can be heated for 20 min at 60°C to inactivate RNAses. Storage at -80°C.

Works fine for me so far, I have no problems with RNA degradation...

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Does the ethanol prevent degradation by RNases?

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