The isolation of DNA from bacterial and fungal cells for recombinant DNA technology involves several enzymes. The specific enzymes used can vary depending on the protocol and the type of cells being used, but some commonly employed enzymes include:
- Lysozyme: This enzyme breaks down the peptidoglycan layer in bacterial cell walls, making the cells more permeable.
- Cellulase and Chitinase: These enzymes are used to break down the cell walls of fungal cells. Cellulase targets cellulose, while chitinase targets chitin, both major components of fungal cell walls.
- Proteinase K: This enzyme digests proteins, helping to remove proteins bound to the DNA and preventing them from interfering with downstream applications.
- RNase: This enzyme degrades RNA, preventing RNA contamination of the purified DNA.
After these enzymes have acted, the DNA is typically purified using methods like phenol-chloroform extraction or commercially available DNA purification kits.