How is plasmid DNA separated from chromosomal DNA?
Plasmid DNA can be separated from chromosomal DNA by the alkaline lysis method. Cells are first lysed with a strong alkaline buffer containing SDS and NaOH. A series of steps involving precipitation, centrifugation and running the supernatant through a resin filter seperates cellular debris as well as chomosomal DNA form the plasmid. This is most often done very easily using mini, midi or maxi-prep kits which are available from companies. From there the plasmid DNA can be inserted into another cell.
