8 M LiCl (lithium chloride) recipe
A salt that selectively precipitates RNA: large RNA pellets while most DNA and small RNAs (tRNA) stay in solution. Use at 2.5 M final.
🧮 Volume calculator
| Component | Amount | Final concentration (1X) |
|---|---|---|
| LiCl | 16.95 g | 8 M |
| Water (distilled) | to final volume |
Steps
- Add LiCl to water in portions (it gets hot).
- Cool and bring to volume.
- Filter and store at room temperature.
Good to know
- Add to 2.5 M final, hold at −20 °C for ≥30 min and centrifuge.
- Chloride can inhibit translation and RT, so wash well with 70% ethanol.
FAQ
Does it precipitate RNA shorter than 300 nt?
Poorly — use ethanol or isopropanol precipitation for small RNAs.
This is a widely used standard composition. Amounts depend on the hydrate form and purity of your reagents — check the formula weight (FW) on the bottle and follow your institution's safety rules and the manufacturers' instructions.