RNAintegritet

RNA integrity refers to the preservation of the structural and functional properties of ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules. It is a critical concept in molecular biology, biochemistry, and related fields, particularly in research and diagnostics where accurate RNA analysis is essential. RNA molecules are susceptible to degradation due to various factors, including enzymatic activity (e.g., ribonucleases or RNases), physical stress, temperature fluctuations, and chemical exposure. Maintaining RNA integrity ensures reliable results in applications such as gene expression studies, sequencing, and clinical diagnostics.

RNA integrity is typically assessed using methods like agarose gel electrophoresis, where intact RNA appears as distinct bands, or through specialized tools like the RNA Integrity Number (RIN), derived from bioanalyzer or capillary electrophoresis profiles. A high RIN score (closer to 10) indicates well-preserved RNA, while lower scores suggest degradation. Factors influencing RNA integrity include proper storage conditions (e.g., low temperatures and RNase-free environments), efficient extraction techniques, and timely processing to minimize exposure to degradative agents.

In clinical and research settings, compromised RNA integrity can lead to inaccurate data, affecting downstream analyses such as reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) or RNA sequencing. Therefore, strict protocols are employed to prevent degradation, including the use of RNase inhibitors, sterile techniques, and rapid sample processing. Understanding and maintaining RNA integrity is fundamental for ensuring the validity and reproducibility of molecular biology experiments.