The Aurum total RNA mini kit produces high-quality DNA-free total RNA from a wide range of starting materials, including cultured cells, bacteria, and yeast, as well as animal and plant tissues. The kit utilizes a stringent reagent composed of guanidine isothiocyanate and β-mercaptoethanol for efficient sample lysis and quick RNase inactivation, followed by purification on silica membrane in a spin-column format using a spin- or vacuum-mediated protocol. The entire purification process, including DNase I digest, is completed in less than 60 minutes. Isolated RNA is of the highest integrity and is suitable for the most discriminating applications. The Aurum total RNA mini kit can also be used for RNA cleanup and desalting.