In strawberry DNA extraction, what is the role of a detergent in the protocol?

In strawberry DNA extraction, what is the role of a detergent in the protocol?

• A. Acts as a buffer to maintain pH.
• B. Solubilizes cell membranes to release DNA into solution.
• C. Stabilizes DNA after extraction.
• D. Inhibits nucleases in the sample.

Answer: (B)

Detergents break apart membranes. In strawberry DNA extraction, the detergent dissolves the lipid bilayers of the cell membrane (and other membrane-bound structures), allowing the cell’s contents, including DNA, to be released into the extraction solution. This membrane disruption is what lets DNA be present in the liquid so it can later be collected. Other steps in the protocol handle pH control, DNA stabilization, or nuclease inhibition, but the detergent’s primary job is to solubilize membranes and liberate DNA into the solution.

Detergents break apart membranes. In strawberry DNA extraction, the detergent dissolves the lipid bilayers of the cell membrane (and other membrane-bound structures), allowing the cell’s contents, including DNA, to be released into the extraction solution. This membrane disruption is what lets DNA be present in the liquid so it can later be collected. Other steps in the protocol handle pH control, DNA stabilization, or nuclease inhibition, but the detergent’s primary job is to solubilize membranes and liberate DNA into the solution.