OBJECTIVETo extract RNA from Pinellia ternata and lay a foundation for studying the formation mechanism of P. ternata.

METHODBy modifying the method recommended by Guanidinium for extracting total RNA from plant tissues rich in phenolic and polysaccharidic compounds, a simple and convenient method for extraction of total RNA from the tubers, stems and leaves of P. ternate containing abundant polyphenols and polysaccharides was established. High concentrated p-mercaptoethanol was added in the RNA extracted buffer to remove polyphenols, phenol and chloroform were used to eliminate proteins, and isopropanol and sodium acetate were used to precipitate polysaccharides.

RESULTThe A260/A230 value of RNA extracted with improved method were all over 2.0 and the values of A260/A280 were between 1.7 and 2.0. The electrophoresis bands were cleared on agarosegel and integrity of RNA was good.

CONCLUSIONThe results showed that RNA obtained from the tubers, stems and leaves of P. ternate with this method had high purity and quality and could be used in molecular biological research, as DDRT-PCR and reverse Northern blotting analysis directly. This method is simple, economic, stable performance, and has a good repeatability as well as is suitable for extracting total RNA of medicinal plants with high concentrations of phenolics and polysaccharides.