FAQ: I am seeing genomic DNA in my preps when using the Monarch Total RNA Miniprep Kit. What could be the problem?

Genomic DNA contamination is very common in RNA preps. Typical commercial kits do a good job of decreasing the gDNA burden. The Monarch Total RNA Miniprep Kit employs both a specific column to capture gDNA (NEB #T2017) and a separate on-column enzymatic DNase I treatment. These combined activities lower DNA levels over 6 orders of magnitude. Removing remaining traces of DNA can be problematic, and for applications in which is it necessary, we suggest a separate off-column DNase I treatment followed by a cleanup. The protocol is available online and in the product manual.