Miniprep solution 2 (alkaline lysis, P2) recipe
Lyses bacteria and denatures DNA: 200 mM NaOH, 1% SDS.
🧮 Volume calculator
| Component | Amount | Final concentration (1X) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 M NaOH | 2 mL | 200 mM |
| 10% SDS | 10 mL | 1% |
| Water (distilled) | to final volume |
Steps
- Add NaOH and SDS to water and mix.
- Store tightly capped at room temperature (CO₂ uptake weakens it).
Good to know
- Mix by gently inverting 4–6 times and do not exceed 5 min; vortexing shears genomic DNA into the prep.
- If SDS precipitates in the cold, warm to 37 °C.
⚠ Safety Strongly alkaline — wear goggles and gloves.
FAQ
How often should I remake it?
Tightly capped it lasts months; remake it if lysates no longer clear.
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.