How much care is necessary to avoid contamination with RNases?
Normally RNA degradation in paraffin embedded tissue occurs before fixation, e. g. due to long processing times before fixation of the specimen. In formalin fixed tissue, RNA is relatively stable. In a typical in situ hybridization experiment the steps before hybridization are sensitive to RNA degradation. However degradation requires a massive contamination with RNases. Baking of glassware, plugged tips, DEPC treatment of solutions, bench or other devices are not necessary. For a successful in situ hybridization experiment using paraffin embedded tissue the use of clean, possibly autoclaved material (pipette tips) and avoidance of coughing, sneezing and talking close to the specimen is sufficient.
Related Questions
- I love fatty fish like salmon and mackerel but am concerned about mercury contamination. Is it necessary to avoid fish now or are there ways around the mercury issue?
- How do I know the payment amount necessary to avoid any interest charges on deferred interest promotions?
- How can I avoid cross contamination between neighboring wells on the MPX slide/MTP plate?
