Introduction

What do you have in common with a banana? Even though we might not look
alike, all living things—bananas and people included—are made up of the same
basic material.

We are all made up of cells, and at the centre of the cell where all the magic
happens is where the DNA is found. DNA has genes on them which are passed
on from your parents to you.

Purpose of DNA extraction

 To study causes of diseases by genes

 To develop medication which help to diagnose sicknesses.
 To determine if someone father is really their father.
Extracting DNA from Banana

1. Mush the banana in the resealable bag until all the lumps are gone

 Why banana is used?

Bananas are used because they have a lot of DNA inside their cells
therefore we will be able to see a lot more of DNA and better.
 Why mash the banana?
Exposes a greater surface area from which to extract the DNA.
Separates the banana’s cells and exposes them to the soap and salt.

2. Fill a cup with the hot water and salt.

 Why is hot water used?

Used to stop the cells from doing their magic and allows the cells to
 Why is salt used?
Helps bring the DNA and other substances in the cell to come together.

3. Pour the saltwater mix into the bag. Close the bag and very gently squeeze and
move the saltwater and banana mush together.

4. Add the dishwashing soap into the bag and gently mix the contents.

 Why dishwashing soap was added?

Helps breaks down the cell walls and release the DNA.

5. Place the coffee filter in a clear glass cup, securing the top of the filter around
the lip of the cup.

6. Pour the mix into the filter and let it sit until all of the liquid drips down into
the cup.

 Why is it filtered?
Allows DNA and other substances to be separated from the water and allows
the DNA to be collected.

7. Remove and discard the used coffee filter.

8. Tilt the glass and slowly add cold alcohol down the side of the cup.

 Why cold alcohol is added?

To separate DNA from other substances of the cell & helps the clumps of
DNA to form.

9. You may see some bubbles and cloudy material moving around in the alcohol.
This is the DNA pieces clumping together.
 Why DNA goes into alcohol?
DNA leaves the salty water into the alcohol because it does not break
down in alcohol, similar to how sand cannot break down in water.