In Vivo Electroporation
In Vivo Electroporation - Related Videos
05:53
In vivo Electroporation of Developing Mouse Retina
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Cited by 33 •
2011
A method for the incorporation of plasmid DNA into murine retinal cells for the purpose of performing either gain- or loss of function studies in vivo is presented. This method capitalizes on the transient increase in permeability of cell plasma membranes induced by the application of an external electrical field.
05:26
Transfection of Mouse Retinal Ganglion Cells by in vivo Electroporation
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Cited by 5 •
2011
We demonstrate an in vivo electroporation protocol for transfecting single or small clusters of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and other retinal cell types in postnatal mice over a wide range of ages. The ability to label and genetically manipulate postnatal RGCs in vivo is a powerful tool for developmental studies.
13:31
Single Cell Electroporation in vivo within the Intact Developing Brain
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Cited by 26 •
2008
Single-cell electroporation (SCE) is a specialized technique allowing delivery of DNA or other macromolecules into individual cells within intact tissue, including in vivo preparations. Here we detail the procedure for SCE of a fluorescent dye or plasmid DNA into neurons within the intact brain of the Xenopus laevis tadpole.
22:02
Gene Transfer to the Developing Mouse Inner Ear by In Vivo Electroporation
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Cited by 23 •
2012
The mouse inner ear is a placode-derived sensory organ whose developmental program is elaborated during gestation. We define an in utero gene transfer technique consisting of three steps: mouse ventral laparotomy, transuterine microinjection, and in vivo electroporation. We use digital video microscopy to demonstrate the critical experimental embryological techniques.
15:56
DNA Transfection of Mammalian Skeletal Muscles using In Vivo Electroporation
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Cited by 99 •
2009
We describe detailed procedures for the efficient transfection of plasmid DNA into the fibers of foot muscles of live mice using electroporation and the subsequent visualization of protein expression using fluorescence microscopy.
FAQs
Brief electrical pulses create temporary, reversible disruptions in the plasma membrane rather than a permanent breach. During the stimulated interval, these pores provide a route for DNA, RNA, drugs, or other compounds to cross into nearby cells. Once the electrical stimulus ends, membrane resealing limits continued permeability, which supports localized manipulation in living tissue.
Efficiency depends on the interaction between pulse conditions, tissue properties, and delivery-site accessibility. Electrical settings determine whether membrane pores form adequately, while the tissue environment can affect how readily cells respond. Access to the intended site also determines whether the introduced material reaches the relevant neural population. These variables therefore need consideration when interpreting uptake or expression.
Membrane resealing makes the intervention transient, helping researchers alter cells without leaving the membrane continuously permeable. In neural tissue, that temporary window supports delivery while preserving the surrounding biological environment, an important consideration when studying tissue-specific biology. It also helps distinguish the intended cellular response from effects of sustained membrane disruption.
A practical workflow links three decisions: the material to be introduced, the neural delivery site, and the electrical pulse conditions. The site must be accessible, pulses must be selected to support temporary membrane permeabilization, and the material must be present during that window. After stimulation, resealing allows the tissue to recover its barrier function.
Potential cargo includes DNA, RNA, drugs, and other compounds, so the method can support both genetic and non-genetic interventions. DNA or RNA delivery is useful when the goal is to manipulate gene expression, whereas drug or compound delivery broadens the approach beyond nucleic-acid studies. The appropriate cargo depends on the biological question and intended outcome.
It can be used to manipulate gene expression in neural tissue, investigate circuit function, and evaluate potential treatments. Because delivery occurs within a living organism, researchers can examine these questions in the context of tissue-specific biology while preserving the surrounding biological environment. The approach therefore connects molecular interventions with neural-tissue and circuit-level outcomes.