In: Biology
What role does the Chelex play in the isolation of genomic DNA?
A) binds DNA so that impurities can be washed away
B) binds divalent metal cations that inhibit the PCR reaction
C) prevents the single-stranded DNA from reannealing during PCR
D) immobilizes DNA polymerase preventing its denaturation at high temperatures
Chelex is a chelating material and is available as chelex 100 which is sold by Bio-Rad. It is used in ion exchange to purify compounds. It binds to transition metal ions. It is chemically a styrene-divinylbenzene copolymer that contains iminodiacetic acid group.
It is generally used for extraction of DNA, after the extraction of DNA, it is used for PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction). It binds to bivalent cations like Mg+2
Chelex protects the DNA sample from DNases. The DNases which may become active after boiling, If the DNases are active then the DNA sample could be degraded.
Therefore, the correct answer is (B); it binds to divalent metal cations that inhabit the PCR reaction.