RNA Made Simple

In the age of genome sequencing, most attention is given to DNA sequencing. However, when it comes to understanding how an organism functions, how it copes with an adverse environment, how it is prepared for an uncertain future, RNA is the molecule to study. Therefore, understanding the functions of RNA and analyzing their sequences has become increasingly important in biology, medicine and agriculture. To understand and study RNA, it is essential to first extract high-quality RNA.

This book aims to provide beginners, who have basic lab experience but no prior knowledge of the subject, with the information needed to extract RNA from a study object, plant or animal. It covers the extraction steps, required tools, and the challenges and considerations involved in obtaining high-quality RNA samples. It is a hands-on book based on the authors' experience and a workshop conducted at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, sponsored by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. The workshop opened up novel ways for several students to study plant breeding. We hope that this book will facilitate research for many scientists, aid in understanding the living world, and contribute to its protection.