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Behold your very own DNA in this do-it-yourself science experiment.

Extract Your Own DNA

Koch Foundation

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Ever wish you could see the strands of genetic material that make you...you? You can, and there's no fancy lab equipment required. In this NOVA video short, learn how to extract your own DNA using just a few common household items.

Behold your very own DNA in this do-it-yourself science experiment.

Body & Brain

Extract Your Own DNAPosted: March 1, 2012NOVA Presents: D.I.Y. ScienceHow to Extract Your Own DNAIngredients(Image of bottled water, clear dish soap, food coloring, table salt, and 70% isopropyl alcohol)And… you!Step 1: Mix 500 ml drinking water with 1 tbsp saltStep 2: Stir until salt is dissolved. Then transfer 3 tbsp of salt water into a clear cup.Step 3: Gargle the salt water for 1 minute.Step 4: Spit the water back into the cup. Now your cheek cells are suspended in the salt water.Step 5: Gently stir the salt water with one drop of soap. (Avoid bubbles as much as possible).Note: Soap breaks down the cell membranes, releasing the DNA.Step 6: In a separate cup, mix 100 ml isopropyl alcohol and 3 drops of food coloring.Step 7: Tilt the salt water cup and gently pour the alcohol so that it forms a layer on top (about 2 cm thick).Step 8: Wait about 2.5 minutes. You should see white clumps and strings forming.(Image of strings and clumps of DNA)That's your DNA!

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