Why is formaldehyde added to RNA gels? - (Mar/03/2001 )

From: r.d.
email: whatever@menu.com
Category: RNA-Related

Message
Why is formaldehyde added to RNA gels?

Because RNAs are single-stranded, and are able to form secondary structures byintramolecular base pairing. RNAs must therefore be electrophoresed under denaturingconditions if good separations are to be obtained. Denaturation is achieved either byadding formaldehyde to the gel and loading buffers or by treating the RNA with glyoxal andDMSO prior to loading.