The purity of DNA samples significantly influences the accuracy and reliability of quantification measurements. DNA purity refers to the absence of contaminants, such as proteins, RNA, or other impurities, which can affect the quantification process.
Accurate DNA quantification is crucial in various fields, including molecular biology, genetics, forensics, and medical research. It provides essential information for applications like PCR, DNA sequencing, cloning, and genotyping.
When DNA purity is compromised, it can lead to inaccurate quantification results. Contaminants in the DNA sample can interfere with the absorbance measurements used in spectrophotometry, which is a commonly employed technique for DNA quantification. These contaminants may absorb light at the same wavelengths as DNA, leading to overestimation or underestimation of DNA concentration.