Final answer:
The 'break the cells open' step in DNA extraction usually involves the use of a lysis buffer to disrupt cell membranes followed by enzymes like proteases and RNases to deactivate other macromolecules.
Step-by-step explanation:
Steps Corresponding to 'Break the Cells Open' in DNA Extraction
The protocol on Canvas titled "DNA extraction using phenol 2021" outlines several steps that correspond to the break the cells open phase, crucial for isolating nucleic acids. To break open the cells, the use of a lysis buffer which often contains detergents is employed to disrupt the cell and nuclear membranes. This is followed by enzymatic treatment, which may involve proteases and ribonucleases (RNases), to inactivate proteins and RNA respectively, preventing their interference with the DNA. This prepares the cell contents for further processing, such as the phenol/chloroform extraction to remove other components and ethanol precipitation to collect the DNA.
An analogy for this critical step is often outlined as the use of physical techniques like grinding or the application of ultrasonic waves in a cell fractionation scheme, although for plasmid DNA purification alkaline lysis or enzyme lysozyme might be used.