Isolation of small RNAs - What are the chemical and physical properties? (Nov/08/2004 )

Hi

I'm doing some research for small RNA isolation (specificly miRNAs). The Kits from Ambion don't describe the special properties of specific small RNA isolation.
Does anybody know a description or explanaition why for example EtOH is used instead of Isopropanol? And three volumes of EtOH is used instead of two?
Why Na-acetat is used and not anything else?

Stefan

Hi Stefan,

I think those are just basic principles for nucleic acid precipitation and nothing is very special for small RNAs. For example, in Stratagen's microRNA isolation kit instruction, isopropanol is used instead of ethanol.

In addition, this thread may be useful:

http://www.protocol-online.org/forums/inde...?showtopic=3874