During a DNA extraction, a detergent causes the cell to unwind or pop open, or lyse. So that the DNA is released into the solution. The detergent is used to open any cell in the DNA extraction process. Mostly liquid detergent or simple detergent is used in DNA extraction. Detergents make the DNA extraction process very easy. In simple words, The cell wall is made up of lipids, a type of fat. The detergent breaks down the fat from which the DNA can be extracted easily.