Extract DNA from strawberries with our Science Ambassadors Christina, Eduardo and Yu!
How to Extract DNA from Strawberries
Introduction to DNA Extraction
- The presenter, Christina, introduces the concept of extracting DNA from strawberries, explaining that DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is present in all living things and contains the instructions for cellular functions.
Materials Needed
- To start the experiment, you need:
- Strawberries
- A Ziploc bag
- Salt (for the DNA extraction solution)
Steps for Extraction
- Begin by placing strawberries into a Ziploc bag and mashing them up thoroughly. This step is described as fun and engaging.
- After mashing, add the DNA extraction solution to the strawberry mixture. The result resembles a "strawberry soup," which is gooey and surprising.
Filtering the Mixture
- Use gauze or cheesecloth over a plastic cup secured with a rubber band to filter out solid parts from the mixture.
- Pour the mashed strawberry mixture through this setup to collect liquid containing dissolved DNA.
Observing DNA Formation
- Introduce rubbing alcohol carefully into a test tube containing the filtered strawberry liquid without mixing layers.
- Observe as white, fluffy strands of DNA rise to the top of the solution, demonstrating successful extraction.
Conclusion of Experiment
- Christina expresses excitement about witnessing visible DNA and encourages viewers to try this experiment at home, summarizing it as an enjoyable learning experience on how to extract strawberry DNA.