Quick Answer: The Centrifuge Tube, Micro, Plastic (Dnase/Rnase Free Certified) is a plastic microcentrifuge tube supplied for nucleic acid work and listed as free of DNase and RNase. A DNase/RNase-free microcentrifuge tube is used for RNA extraction, PCR set-up, cDNA synthesis and DNA storage, where even trace nuclease contamination could degrade the sample.
Why Nuclease-Free Tubes Matter
DNases and RNases are enzymes that cut nucleic acids. RNases in particular are very stable, survive autoclaving and are present on skin, dust and many surfaces, so a single contaminated tube can degrade an RNA sample before it is analysed. Tubes sold as DNase/RNase free are made and packed so that these enzymes are not introduced, and production lots are normally tested to show that no nuclease activity is detected.
The listing title describes these tubes as DNase/RNase free certified. For audit files or research records, ask for the lot documentation behind that description, since it sets out the testing method and detection limit. Some nuclease-free tubes are also described as free of pyrogens or human DNA, but those are separate claims and are not made in this title.
In daily use the tube behaves like any plastic micro centrifuge tube: it fits standard microcentrifuge rotors, heating blocks and freezer boxes. The difference lies in handling. Open packs only with fresh gloves, keep tubes in their sealed bag until needed, and reserve them for RNA and sensitive PCR work so that routine buffer or protein work does not use up the nuclease-free stock.
Keeping Tubes Nuclease-Free
- Wear fresh gloves, and change them after touching skin, door handles or phones
- Keep tubes in their sealed bag or a closed dispenser rather than tipping them loose onto the bench
- Use filter pipette tips and nuclease-free reagents alongside the tubes
- Clean the work area with an RNase decontamination solution before RNA work
Applications
- RNA extraction and storage for gene expression studies
- Setting up reverse transcription and PCR reactions
- Storing purified plasmid or genomic DNA ahead of sequencing
- Aliquoting nuclease-free water and enzymes so stock bottles are opened less often
Specifications
| Type | Microcentrifuge tube, plastic |
| Listed as | DNase/RNase free certified (as stated in the product title) |
| Purpose | RNA, DNA and PCR work sensitive to nucleases |
| Fits | Standard microcentrifuge rotors, heating blocks and tube boxes |
| Size, cap style and lot documentation | Confirm at enquiry |
Why Choose LabEquip
Nuclease-free tubes are ordered by molecular biology, genetics and diagnostic training labs running RNA extraction, PCR and sequencing preparation. LabEquip supplies them within Biology Lab Products; request the size, quantity and lot documentation you need through our contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does DNase/RNase free mean for a microcentrifuge tube?
It means the tubes are made and packed to avoid DNase and RNase contamination, and production lots are normally tested so that no activity of these enzymes is detected. This protects RNA and DNA samples from being broken down in the tube.
Can I make ordinary tubes RNase free by autoclaving?
Not reliably. RNases are unusually heat-stable and can refold after autoclaving. Labs that need nuclease-free conditions use tubes supplied nuclease-free, or specific decontamination treatments, rather than relying on autoclaving alone.
Do I need these tubes for routine buffers or protein work?
Usually not. Standard plastic microcentrifuge tubes are sufficient for buffers, protein samples and teaching practicals. Keep nuclease-free tubes for RNA, sensitive PCR and long-term DNA storage.
How should these tubes be stored once the pack is opened?
Reseal the bag or move the tubes into a closed, clean container, and only take them out with gloved hands. Label the pack as nuclease-free so it is not used for general work.
Are DNase/RNase-free tubes also sterile?
Not necessarily. Nuclease-free and sterile are separate properties, and a tube can be one without the other. If your work needs both, make sure the tubes are also supplied sterile.
Can these tubes be used for PCR?
They can hold reactions for thermal cyclers that accept 1.5 ml tubes, but most thermal cyclers use thin-walled 0.2 ml PCR tubes or plates for fast heat transfer. Larger nuclease-free tubes are commonly used to prepare and store master mixes before dispensing.
Last Updated: September 2026
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