Cell Transfection

Cell transfection is a laboratory technique for introducing nucleic acids, such as DNA, mRNA, or small interfering RNA, into living cells to alter gene expression or produce specific proteins. It works by enabling genetic material to cross the cell membrane, commonly through lipid-based carriers that form complexes with nucleic acids or by electroporation, which uses brief electrical pulses to create temporary membrane pores. In biology, transfection supports gene-function studies, reporter assays, protein production, RNA interference, and genome-editing workflows. Researchers can use transient or stable transfection to analyze short-term responses or maintain introduced genetic material across cell divisions.

Cell Transfection - Related Videos

Research

JoVE Journal - Biology
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Transfecting and Nucleofecting Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells

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Cited by 26 •

2011

Despite recent advancements in genetic modification, transfection of human embryonic stem cells (HESCs) remains a capricious process. To our knowledge, systematic and efficient methods to transfect human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have not been reported. Here, we describe robust protocols to efficiently transfect and nucleofect human iPSCs.

Education

JoVE Science Education - Basic Biology

An Introduction to Transfection

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2023

Transfection is the process of inserting genetic material, such as DNA and double stranded RNA, into mammalian cells. The insertion of DNA into a cell enables the expression, or production, of proteins using the cells own machinery, whereas insertion of RNA into a cell is used to down-regulate the production of a specific protein by stopping translation. While the site of action for transfected RNA is the cytoplasm, DNA must be transported to the nucleus for effective transfection. There, the...

Single Cell Transfection in Chick Embryos

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Cited by 3 •

2010

Using fine tip micropipettes we inject plasmid DNA into subdomains of chicken somites or neural tubes. The concentration of the plasmid is adjusted to generate single transfected cells. We then allow the cells to develop into clonal populations.

Transfecting RAW264.7 Cells with a Luciferase Reporter Gene

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Cited by 13 •

2015

Transfection into the macrophage cell line, RAW264.7, is difficult due to the cell’s natural response against foreign materials. We described here a gentle yet robust procedure for transfecting luciferase reporter genes into RAW264.7 cells.

Optimized Protocol for Efficient Transfection of Dendritic Cells without Cell Maturation

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Cited by 11 •

2011

We present our optimized high-throughput nucleofection protocol as an efficient way of transfecting primary human monocyte-derived dendritic cells with either plasmid DNA or siRNA without causing cell maturation. We further provide evidence for successful siRNA silencing of targeted gene RIG-I at both the mRNA and protein levels.

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