RNA Extraction from Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded Tissues

This chapter provides a home-made method of obtaining RNA suitable for reverse transcription and PCR analyses from formalin-fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE) specimens, even of autopsy origin. This protocol is based mainly on a deparaffinization step, a proteolytic digestion with Proteinase K, phenol purification, and alcohol precipitation, using a point-to-point protocol with notes and references to guide the researcher into the laboratory practice. A section of the chapter is specifically dedicated to RNA handling, because of the instability of this macromolecule. Specific precautions are suggested in order to prevent the degradation of RNA during the extraction and to avoid the accidental introduction of RNases from external sources.