Rapid preparation of RNA samples using DNA-affinity chromatography and DNAzyme methods

Milligram quantities of RNA are commonly synthesized by in vitro transcription from a DNA template with T7 RNA polymerase. However, the run-off transcription method results in heterogeneity at the RNA 3'-terminus. RNA purification requires single-nucleotide resolution to separate the transcript of the correct length from the aborted or add-on transcripts that are usually present in comparable amounts. Here, we describe an RNA preparation method that uses a trans-acting DNAzyme and sequence-specific affinity column chromatography. This purification method is simple, fast, and suited for high throughput.