What To Consider When Using DIY Kits For Plasmid DNA Production

By Meagan Gelinske, Director for DNA Product Technology, Aldevron

Plasmid DNA purification has come a long way since Herbert Boyer and Stanley N. Cohen's experiments in the early 1970s. Molecular biology is now dominated by the various ways recombinant DNA and RNA can be manipulated, and purification techniques have evolved to meet this demand. In sharp contrast to the complicated, labor-intensive efforts that were needed in previous decades to extract even a small amount of DNA, there are now numerous easy-to-use DIY kits available that enable researchers to obtain the DNA they need.

Anyone who wants to make an impact in biological science can now consider using these DIY DNA kits, which have their distinct advantages. However, the process can also be time consuming, and many organizations may prefer to outsource their plasmid preparations to a third-party vendor.

To help determine whether a DIY DNA kit or a third-party vendor is the best option to support your plasmid DNA production needs, we have created a list to evaluate what to consider when using DIY kits.