DNA Extraction from Paprika

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the universal carrier of every living creature's genetic information. Here, you can see an instruction for its isolation in a few steps.

1. Mash half of a paprika with a pinch of salt.
Hint: By mashing, you break the paprika's cell walls. The added salt makes water leak out of the cells.

2. Pour the mixture through a sieve into a glass and add 15 mL dish detergent and a pinch of meat tenderizer. Shake the mixture and allow it to stand for 10 minutes.
Hint: DNA remains in the liquid, so you can get rid of cell debris by sieving. The dish detergent binds the cell membrane which consist of fat.

3. Pour the mixture into a high glass (similar to a test tube) and overlay it with alcohol (at least 70%, e.g. denatured alcohol).
Hint: DNA is soluble in water but not in alcohol. This way, you make it precipitate.

4. You can see the DNA in form of white threads. Wind it up on a toothpick.

Below, you can see a picture of the postcard we distributed to the participating children.