RNases A in sol. 1

[Liam E Good]

Hi,

Several alkaline lysis plasmid prep. protocols have been posted where the 
first solution (sol. 1, PS1, etc., which is used to resuspend the 
pelleted cells) contains RNase A.  Does anyone know the first reference 
for this use of RNases A.  Also, does the procedure work because the 
enzyme enters the cells and degrades the RNA before the cells are lysed 
with NaOH/SDS?  I can't imagine that the RNase keeps working after the 
NaOH/SDS is added.

Thanks in advance.  Please reply to me, because my subscription has been 
getting interrupted.

Liam