From: r.d.
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Category: RNA-Related
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Why is formaldehyde added to RNA gels?
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anonymous
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Posted 03 March 2001 - 10:00 PM
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.
