Start By Selecting Appropriate Supplies
Begin your molecular testing journey by choosing supplies designed specifically for molecular analysis. When picking supplies designed specifically for molecular work, check for labels like "sterile," "DNase/RNase-free," and "pyrogen-free." These labels indicate the supplies have been treated to remove substances that break down nucleic acids or cause reactions; general lab supplies (like plastic tubes) should not be used as they could contain hidden contaminants; filter tips on pipette tips could prevent saliva or sample droplets entering the pipette ( preventing cross-contamination).
Store Supplies Properly for Cleanliness
Contamination can occur prior to use due to poor storage practices. For best results, it is best to keep molecular testing supplies sealed until use. Once open, it should be used within two to four weeks (1-2 for pipette tips) and sealed tightly after each use; sensitive products (e.g. PCR reaction tubes) should be stored in either the refrigerator or freezer according to directions; allow these sensitive supplies to reach room temperature before opening to prevent condensation (which can bring in contaminants).
Follow Strict Rules When Utilizing Supplies
When using supplies, focus on minimizing cross-contamination and environmental exposure. Work in a clean area preferably a biosafety cabinet or molecular testing bench that has been thoroughly wiped down with 70% ethanol before every use; never touch tubes, pipette tips or the insides of tubes with your hands or gloves (change gloves often if handling different samples); only ever reuse pipette tips once for different samples/reagents/reagents etc; open centrifuge tubes/reaction tubes gently (to prevent splashing); place opened supplies temporarily on clean trays/tissues to store temporarily before placing onto dirty surfaces before storing temporarily until needed for use/ storage/use when needed/needed.
Carefully Handle Used Supplies
Contamination can easily spread from used supplies to new ones if they're not handled appropriately. After testing, throw single-use supplies (pipette tips and reaction tubes) in a biohazard bin; don't leave them on the bench or mix them in with regular trash. For reusable supplies (like centrifuge tubes allowed by law), cleaning should take place with water, disinfectant (such as bleach or molecular-grade cleaner) soaking, then drying in a sterile oven. Never reuse supplies that come into contact with samples with unknown contaminants as this will spread pollution into future tests.