Extracting DNA from Human Saliva | The Knowledge of Science
Channel: The Knowledge Of Science
Date: 2023-09-28

Learn how to extract DNA from your own saliva in this fun and easy experiment! This is a great way to learn about the basic principles of molecular biology and to see your own DNA up close.

What you will need:Saliva sample (about 1/2 teaspoon)
Isopropyl alcohol (95% or higher)
Dish soap
Salt
Water
Two small cups
A coffee filter
A stirring rod
A toothpickInstructions:

1. Spit into one of the cups.

X

2. Add a few drops of dish soap to the saliva and stir until it is well mixed.

3. Add a pinch of salt to the mixture

and stir again.

4. Slowly add the isopropyl alcohol to the mixture until it separates into two layers.

5. Dip the coffee filter into the top

layer of liquid (the alcohol layer).

6. Remove the coffee filter and hold it up to the light. You should see a white stringy substance on the filter. This is your DNA!
#dna #science #experiment 
Tips:

• For best results, use fresh saliva.

• Be careful not to add too much isopropyl alcohol to the mixture, or it will dissolve the DNA.

• If you don't have a coffee filter, you can use a paper towel

instead.

Additional information:

DNA is the genetic material that makes up all living organisms. It contains the instructions for building and maintaining all of the cells in your body. DNA is made up of four different molecules called nucleotides. The nucleotides are arranged in a specific sequence, which is what determines your unique genetic code.