DNA Extraction From Kiwi Fruit

This experiment demonstrates how DNA can be extracted from fruit cells, such as from kiwi fruit. The DNA becomes visible as strands at the boundary between the fruit extract and chilled ethanol.

1. Peel the skin from half a kiwi fruit and mash the fruit into a pulp.
2. Mix in a teaspoon of salt and a small volume of washing-up liquid.
3. Filter the mixture and collect the filtrate (the liquid that passes through).
4. Place the filtrate in an ice bath to cool.
5. Carefully pour chilled ethanol onto the top of the cooled filtrate.
6. Observe the formation of DNA strands at the boundary between the filtrate and ethanol.

DNA extraction from kiwi - Milne’s Science Tech:

📄 Extracting DNA from fruit - BBC Bitesize: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/z3mbqhv/revision/4

• Try using other fruits such as strawberries, bananas, or papayas.
• Compare the amount of DNA produced by different fruits.

• Use ethanol in a well-ventilated area and keep away from open flames.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves when handling chemicals.
• Dispose of waste materials properly after the experiment.

• What role does the detergent play in the experiment? (It breaks down cell membranes to release DNA.)
• Why is salt added to the mixture? (It helps the DNA clump together and become visible.)
• Why is ethanol used in this experiment? (DNA is insoluble in ethanol, so it precipitates out and can be seen.)
• Why must the ethanol be cold? (Cold ethanol improves the precipitation of DNA and makes it more visible.)