What is RNA Later?
RNA Later is a specially formulated reagent used to stabilize and protect RNA in biological samples. It is particularly useful in histology for preserving tissue samples where subsequent RNA extraction and analysis are required. By preventing RNA degradation, RNA Later helps maintain the integrity of the sample's RNA profile.
Why is RNA Preservation Important in Histology?
In histology, maintaining RNA integrity is crucial for various downstream applications such as gene expression analysis, qPCR, and RNA sequencing. RNA is highly susceptible to degradation due to the ubiquitous presence of RNases. Without proper preservation, the RNA profile of a sample can be altered, leading to inaccurate results.
How Does RNA Later Work?
RNA Later works by rapidly penetrating tissues and inactivating RNases, the enzymes responsible for RNA degradation. This helps in maintaining the RNA within the sample in its original state. The reagent can be used for a wide range of samples, including tissues, cells, and blood, ensuring consistent and reliable RNA preservation.
Application in Tissue Samples
In histology, RNA Later is frequently used for preserving tissue samples immediately after dissection. This is especially important when there is a delay between tissue collection and RNA extraction. By soaking the tissue in RNA Later, researchers can store the sample at room temperature for short-term storage or at -20°C to -80°C for long-term storage without significant RNA degradation.Compatibility with Histological Techniques
One of the key advantages of RNA Later is its compatibility with various histological techniques. Samples preserved in RNA Later can still be processed for traditional histological procedures such as fixation, embedding, and staining. This allows researchers to perform both morphological and molecular analyses on the same sample.Effects on Downstream Applications
RNA Later can influence downstream applications depending on the specific requirements of the assay. For instance, while it is excellent for preserving RNA for most molecular biology techniques, some protocols might require adjustments due to the presence of the reagent. It is always advisable to refer to specific guidelines provided by RNA Later manufacturers for optimal results.Storage and Handling
Samples preserved in RNA Later should be handled with care to avoid contamination. The reagent allows for flexible storage options, which is beneficial for researchers who need to collect samples in the field or in situations where immediate RNA extraction is not feasible.Frequently Asked Questions
Can RNA Later be used for all types of tissues?
Yes, RNA Later is versatile and can be used for a wide variety of tissues including brain, liver, kidney, and muscle. However, some tissues with high RNase activity may require additional precautions.
Is there any impact of RNA Later on protein analysis?
RNA Later is primarily designed for RNA preservation. If protein analysis is required, it is recommended to use samples specifically preserved for that purpose. RNA Later may not be suitable for preserving proteins due to its chemical composition.
Does RNA Later interfere with histological staining?
Generally, RNA Later does not interfere with most histological stains. However, it is always good practice to test the compatibility of RNA Later with specific staining protocols to ensure optimal results.
Can RNA Later be used for in situ hybridization?
Yes, RNA Later-preserved samples can be used for in situ hybridization. The reagent helps maintain RNA integrity while allowing for effective hybridization of probes.
What are the storage conditions for RNA Later-preserved samples?
Samples can be stored in RNA Later at room temperature for up to a week, at 4°C for a month, or at -20°C to -80°C for longer periods.
Conclusion
RNA Later is an invaluable tool in histology for preserving RNA integrity in biological samples. Its ability to stabilize RNA makes it essential for accurate gene expression studies and other molecular analyses. By understanding the proper usage, compatibility, and storage conditions, researchers can effectively utilize RNA Later to enhance the quality and reliability of their histological studies.
