RNaseDNasefree

RNaseDNasefree is a designation used for reagents, consumables, and environments that are guaranteed to be free of ribonucleases (RNases) and deoxyribonucleases (DNases). In molecular biology, this minimizes degradation of RNA and prevents DNase-mediated DNA contamination in RNA workflows. The term appears on products such as RNase-free water, buffers, enzyme mixes, tubes, pipette tips, and purification columns intended for RNA work.

Certification and testing: Suppliers commonly provide lot-specific certificates of analysis stating RNase-free and DNase-free status. Verification methods may include enzymatic assays that detect residual RNase activity, DNase activity assays, or surrogate tests such as RNase alerts. Some items may require specialized handling or single-use packaging to maintain nuclease-free status. While many products carry dual RNase- and DNase-free labels, it remains essential for laboratories to follow strict handling practices and use dedicated equipment to preserve integrity.

Applications: Used in RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, RT-qPCR, RNA sequencing library preparation, and other nucleic acid workflows where RNA integrity and DNA contamination must be minimized. The RNase-free status protects RNA from degradation, while DNase-free status minimizes residual DNase carryover that could affect downstream analyses or contaminate samples with genomic DNA.

Handling and quality control: Maintain a nuclease-free environment with dedicated workspaces, barrier pipette tips, and RNase-free water. Store at recommended temperatures, aliquot reagents to avoid repeated freeze-thaw, and replace kits after the indicated shelf life. Contamination can occur rapidly if aseptic technique is not followed.

See also: RNase-free, DNase-free, nuclease-free terminology and quality certificates.