Final answer:
The 'break the cells open' step in DNA extraction includes using a detergent-based lysis buffer, application of protease and RNase, and may involve physical grinding or enzymatic methods like lysozyme.
Step-by-step explanation:
The steps in the described protocol in Canvas titled "DNA extraction using phenol 2021" that correspond with the "break the cells open" step involve:
- Using a lysis buffer to break cells, which contains a detergent. This process is known as lysis.
- Handling the cell contents with protease and RNAase to destroy proteins and RNA, respectively.
- Applying physical methods such as grinding with a mortar and pestle, or enzymatic methods like lysozyme for cell lysis in plasmid preps.
These methods ensure the cell membrane is disrupted to release the DNA while preserving its integrity for further study.