DNA can be isolated from cells through lysis and separation steps. Genomic DNA isolation involves lysing cells to release DNA, separating DNA from other cell components using phenol-chloroform extraction, and precipitating DNA with alcohol. Plasmid DNA isolation is similar but uses alkaline lysis to separate circular plasmid DNA from linear genomic DNA based on their ability to renature. DNA quantity and purity can be assessed using a spectrophotometer, with higher 260/280 ratios indicating purer DNA.