The Production of Ultrapure Water for RNase-sensitive Applications via Ultrafiltration

This application note compares two major processes used to prepare “RNase-free” water prior to its use in molecular biology experiments involving nucleic acid, and particularly those involving RNA. Removal of RNases by ultrafiltration was compared to chemical inactivation of RNases by DEPC treatment. Ultrafiltration cartridges included in Millipore water purification systems were shown to be an alternative to DEPC treatment allowing delivery of high-purity RNase-free water on demand.