Patent ID: 8206990

Claim:
A method for isolating a target nucleic acid from a sample, said method comprising: (a) providing a nucleic acid binding matrix comprising a silica surface, wherein: (i) the nucleic acid binding matrix is treated or has been treated with at least one compound comprising a metal substance selected from the group consisting of metals of the main groups 13 to 16, semimetals, and transition metals, wherein said compound is optionally in dissociated form, solvated form or in a form of a salt; and (ii) the nucleic acid binding matrix has been derivatized with a silane compound carrying at least one hydrophobic group; (b) contacting the nucleic acid binding matrix with the sample; and (c) obtaining said target nucleic acid from said nucleic acid binding matrix, wherein at least part of the target nucleic acid binds directly to the silica surface.