Working directly with DNA isn’t only for the labs of CSI, agribusiness, and headline-grabbing research institutions. It’s basic chemistry, but it uses the molecules of life. You can even do it at home. This project explains how you can isolate and “fingerprint” some of your own DNA (which is a bit more difficult). You can view these experiments as an extension of high school education, a low-cost contribution to science infrastructure in developing countries, or perhaps even an exercise in bioethics.
Projects from Make: Magazine
Home Molecular Genetics
Extract, fingerprint, and replicate your own DNA.
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Steps
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Step #1: Mix the 3 buffer solutions according to these recipes.

- Rinsing buffer: 1.5g (approximately ¼ tsp) table salt, 5g (about 1 tsp) of baking soda, and ½ cup bottled water.
- Running buffer: .05g (a pinch) of table salt, 2g (½ tsp) of baking soda, and up to 1L bottled water. Use a pet-store aquarium kit to make sure this buffer measures pH 7.5; add water to lower the pH, or add baking soda to raise it.
- Loading buffer: 1.25ml (¼ tsp) glycerol/glycerine (available at most pharmacies) and several drops of red food coloring.
Conclusion
This project first appeared in MAKE Volume 07, page 65.