In Vitro Transcription / Translation

In vitro transcription and in vitro translation replicate the processes of RNA and protein synthesis outside of the cellular environment. In vitro RNA transcription reactions are generally used for two distinct purposes: the synthesis of labeled probes, and the synthesis of large amounts of unlabeled RNA. Capped RNA synthesized in transcription reactions is also used for microinjection, in vitro translation, and transfection. In vitro translation is a technique that enables researchers to rapidly express and manufacture small amounts of functional proteins for a variety of applications. Applications include, the rapid identification of gene products, localization of mutations through synthesis of truncated gene products, protein folding studies, and incorporation of modified or unnatural amino acids for functional studies. Both techniques are very useful because of the ability to experiment without having to have an organism or cell as a host.