Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for the digestion of biological cells. Digestion of cells is understood as breaking up cells so that hereditary information can be removed. Using the present invention, nucleic acids are to be able to be removed from cells in particular. The nucleic acids include RNA and DNA. According to the invention, cells are digested in a vessel which can be connected to a line and can thus be part of an overall device. Liquid can drain out of the container or can be pumped into the container via the line, for example. The typical means for performing a mechanical digestion are located in the vessel, that is, in particular beads and a buffer solution. In contrast to the prior art, however, the vessel is not shaken, that is, subjected to vibrations. Instead, it is stirred with the aid of a magnetic stirrer. Strong vibrations are thus avoided. A vessel for performing digestion of cells can therefore be integrated without problems in an overall device.