Plasmid DNA extraction: molecular biology lab protocol

severe

Low Gel Extraction Yield Due to Improper Gel Dissolution

DNA yield from gel extraction is poor. Undissolved agarose particles may be visible or column flow is impeded.

💡 4 · ✓ 4

severe

Low Plasmid Quality Due to Degradation or Denaturation

Plasmid DNA shows smearing on gel, poor A260/280 ratio, or fails in downstream applications despite adequate concentration. Multiple bands or reduced supercoiled form may be visible.

💡 5 · ✓ 5

moderate

Low DNA Yield from Gel Extraction or PCR Cleanup Due to Incomplete Elution

DNA recovery from gel extraction or PCR cleanup is lower than expected based on input amount. Some DNA likely remains bound to column.

💡 4 · ✓ 4

moderate

Low DNA Performance in Downstream Applications Due to Contaminants

Purified DNA fails or performs poorly in downstream applications (transformation, restriction digestion, PCR, sequencing) despite acceptable concentration and A260/280 ratio.

💡 6 · ✓ 6