Abstract: A novel method for the isolation of high molecular weight DNA from plants, yeast bacteria, and animal cells or tissue employs xanthate forming compounds, such as sodium/potassium ethyl xanthogenate. The procedure does not require deproteination and yields clean DNA that is suitable for both PCR and Southern blotting. It can be utilized on a small scale without homogenizing the tissue. These features also facilitate automated screening of tissue samples, one of the labor-intensive techniques in molecular biology.

Abstract: A method of enhancing the enzyme-catalyzed modification of macromolecules comprising exposure of the enzyme and its macromolecule substrate to microwaves is disclosed. A frequency of from 1800 to 3000 MHz and a power of from 50 to 100 watts is preferred. The procedure is rapid, efficient, and suitable for many enzyme-catalyzed reactions. The method can be used for restriction endonuclease digestion of DNA samples and facilitates one of the time-consuming procedures of nucleic acid research. The method is also adaptable for automated procedures in biological research.

Abstract: A novel method for the isolation of high molecular weight DNA from plants, yeast and bacteria using xanthate-forming compounds such as sodium/potassium ethyl xanthogenate is disclosed. The procedure does not require deproteination and yields clean DNA that is suitable for both PCR and Southern blotting. It can be utilized on a small scale without homogenizing the tissue. These features also facilitate automated screening of plant tissue samples, one of the labor-intensive techniques in molecular biology. This method is also adaptable for use in the field.