Can I use Phasemaker Tubes with samples that have been pre-treated with RNAlater?
Yes you can. As RNAlater incorporates salts into the sample, the salt content can increase the density of the sample mix, so we recommend adding RNAse-free water (50-100 µL) to the sample mix.
How do Phasemaker Tubes work?
Phasemaker Tubes work on the principle of density gradient centrifugation. Phasemaker Tubes contain a thick liquid polymer that is heavier than the aqueous phase of the TRIzol Reagent mix, but lighter than the organic phase, so after centrifugation, the polymer positions itself between these two layers and forms an exclusive physical barrier. It separates and completely isolates the upper aqueous phase from the organic phase underneath, making it very easy to aspirate the upper phase containing the RNA.