Electroporation – Detailed Notes Definition : Electroporation is a physical method of gene transfer in which cells are exposed to a brief, high-voltage electric pulse, creating temporary pores in the cell membrane. This allows DNA, RNA, proteins, or other molecules to enter the cytoplasm. It is widely used in bacteria, yeast, plant protoplasts, and mammalian cells. Key Concept: The electric field destabilizes the membrane, making it permeable to macromolecules. 1. Principle Cells are suspended in a conductive medium. A brief electrical pulse induces transient pores in the plasma membrane. DNA or other molecules present in the medium enter the cell through these pores. Membrane reseals after the pulse, and the molecule is retained inside the cell. Advantages of Principle: Direct and rapid. Works in many cell types. Does not require chemical carriers or viral vectors. 2. Materials Required Cells – bacterial, yeast, plant protoplasts, mammalian cells. DNA/RNA/other macromolecule – purifie...
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