Q1: Is Direct-zol suitable for very small numbers of cells?
Yes, the Direct-zol MicroPrep (#R2060) is designed and capable of purifying RNA down to single cell inputs (picogram amounts). A sensitive quantification method is needed (e.g. Qubit, qPCR, etc.)
Q2: Is DNase I available for individual purchase?
All kit components are available for purchase separately.
Q3: How to store DNase-I following resuspension?
Lyophilized DNase I is stable at room temperature. Once resuspended, store frozen aliquots. Minimize freeze thaw cycles as much as possible. Freeze thaw will lower DNase activity.
Q4: Is the DNase-I treatment necessary?
If the downstream application requires DNA-free RNA, we recommend performing the DNase I treatment.
Q5: Is the kit compatible with samples stored in DNA/RNA Shield?
Yes, bring samples homogenized and stored in DNA/RNA Shield to room temperature (20-30ºC). Add 3 volume of TRIzol/TRI Reagent and mix well. Proceed with RNA Purification.
Q6: Is it possible to extract proteins with the Direct-zol RNA kits?
Yes, proteins can be Acetone Precipitated post RNA binding step. Please request supplementary protocol from Zymo Research Technical Support.
Q7: Can samples be stored in TRIzol/TRI Reagent prior to processing?
Yes, samples in TRIzol/TRI Reagent or similar are stable overnight at room temperature and can be stored frozen (-80C). Be sure to lyse and homogenize the sample well prior to freezing. Bring the sample to room temperature prior to RNA Purification.
Q8: Is it possible to isolate DNA with the Direct-zol RNA kits?
Direct-zol DNA/RNA (D2080) kits can isolate DNA from TRIzol
Q9: Is the RNA suitable for Next-Gen sequencing or other sensitive downstream applications?
Yes, the RNA is high quality (A260/A280 >1.8, A260/A230 >1.8) and suitable for any downstream application, including NGS, RT-PCR, hybridization, etc.
Q10: Which phenol-based reagents are compatible with Direct-zol?
The Direct-zol kits are compatible with TRI Reagent, TRIzol, Qiazol, RNAzol, TriPure, TriSure, etc., and any other acid-guanidinium phenol-based reagents.
Q11: What is the difference between the Direct-zol RNA and Quick-RNA kits?
Direct-zol is for samples stored/collected into TRIzol/similar reagents. Quick-RNA is for all other samples.
Q12: What is the difference between the Direct-zol RNA MiniPrep and the Direct-zol RNA MiniPrep Plus?
Both kits function the same, the only difference is the RNA binding capacity of the column provided with the kit.
Q13: I ran out of RNA Wash Buffer. Can I use something else?
Yes, use 80% ethanol as a substitute. RNA Wash Buffer is also sold separately.