Detection of RNA contamination in mammalian DNA preparations

Quantification of nucleic acids has traditionally been performed by determining the UV absorbance at 3 analytical wavelengths: 230 nm, 260 nm, and 280 nm. The information derived from these absorbance measurements allows scientists to measure nucleic acid concentration and to have an indication of sample purity. A disadvantage of this approach is the lack of specificity. Thus, any contaminant that absorbs at these wavelengths will lead to inaccuracies in a nucleic acid concentration result. In this application note, Thermo Fisher Scientific show how a newly introduced feature in Acclaro software allows users to detect and correct for RNA contamination in DNA preparations or DNA contamination in RNA preparations.