How to Extract DNA From a Banana
From your Biology Guide

A simple way to extract DNA from a banana and other types of cells.

Difficulty Level: Easy    Time Required: 15 minutes

1. Gather together a banana, an onion, a chicken liver, salt, warm water, a blender, liquid soap, toothpicks, a strainer, a glass jar and rubbing alcohol.
2. Cut your banana, onion and liver into tiny pieces.
3. Place your banana pieces in the blender, add a teaspoon of salt and slightly cover the mixture with warm water.
4. Mix in the blender for 5 to 10 seconds making sure the mixture is not too runny.
5. Pour the mixture into the glass jar through the strainer. You want the jar to be about half full.
6. Add about 2 teaspoons of liquid soap and gently stir the mixture. You should try not to create bubbles when stirring.
7. Carefully pour the rubbing alcohol down the side of the glass stopping near the top.
8. Wait for 5 minutes.
9. Use the toothpicks to extract the DNA that floats to the surface.
10. Repeat this procedure for the onion and the chicken liver.
    

Tips:

1. When pouring the alcohol, make sure that two separate layers are being formed (The bottom layer being the banana mixture and the top layer being the alcohol).
2. When extracting the DNA, twist the toothpick slowly. Be sure to only remove the DNA from the top layer.

Related Information:

• Genetics
  

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