Transfecting cells can be an optimization game of trial and error. Fortunately, recent advances in transfection reagents that are suitable for multiple cell types are easing the process of transfection for many researchers. Still, there are many factors...
Small regulatory RNAs, such as microRNAs and the short-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that drive RNA interference, are not only interesting research subjects in their own right; they are invaluable research tools, as well. Researchers use these tiny...
Transfection refers to the introduction of foreign DNA into a eukaryotic cell, and can be achieved by simple uptake of a precipitate mixture of calcium phosphate and the DNA to be transfected. Although this represents...
Despite the amazing ability of siRNAs to silence gene expression in relatively straightforward experiments — at least compared to creating a knockout mouse — there are still a few wrinkles to iron out when it comes to transfecting them. Small (or short) inhibitory (or interfering) RNAs are small pieces of RNA that enter cells and interfere with the expression of their target gene, thereby silencing its expression. However, introducing siRNAs into cells is still proving a challenge — one thatwhich has future implications for using siRNAs therapeutically.
Finding the right transfection reagent is a key step in your cell-based expression studies. You need a reagent that will effectively deliver your construct without causing cellular changes that could interfere with the interpretation of your results. In addition to these essentials, it’d be nice...