Quantitation of RNA by a fluorometric method using the SYTO RNASelect stain

Quantitation of even trace amounts of RNA has biological significance. However, existing methods of RNA estimation are not capable of eliminating the interference of other impurities, especially DNA. In this study, we developed a rapid and sensitive method for fluorometric estimation of RNA using an RNA-specific dye, SYTO RNASelect. A good linear correlation between the fluorescence intensity and RNA concentration was observed using this method. The maximal fluorescence intensity of DNA was only 2.9% of the fluorescence intensity of 40 μg/mL RNA, demonstrating the high RNA specificity of the SYTO RNASelect method. [Display omitted] •A rapid and sensitive RNA estimation method was developed using SYTO RNASelect.•The entire procedure was completed within 10 min.•SYTO RNASelect was highly specific for RNA and could eliminate DNA interference.•The method is suitable for high-throughput automation owing to its rapidity.•This method also has the potential to estimate RNA in live cells.