From: fbmm-bounces@lists.oulu.fimailto:fbmm-bounces@lists.oulu.fi [mailto:fbmm-bounces@lists.oulu.fi] On Behalf Of Sakari Kellokumpu Sent: 16. kesäkuuta 2017 9:01 To: fbmm@lists.oulu.fimailto:fbmm@lists.oulu.fi Subject: [Fbmm] New safety practices for collectinfg DNA dyes and agarose gels

Dear all,

Due to recent realization that the fluorescent DNA dyes (Sybr green, midori green, etc) used for DNA/RNA gels are all harmful - in contrast to manufacturers' general statements - as they bind to DNA/RNA. In fact, these statements say that these dyes are safe because they cause less mutations (!).

Because of this, everyone should from now on adopt the old protocols used for ethidium bromide earlier. This means you need to dry the gels and collect them in special containers as a hazard waste. The running buffers need also to be cleaned e.g. by using charcoal bags. When used, charcoal bags can to be collected into the same containers with the gels and treated as a hazardous waste. To get rid of them, please deliver the full containers into the hazard waste room downstairs. Thanks!

Sakari