Foreign DNA is transmitted to host cells through a process called transformation. Transformation results in the modification of the genetic composition of the organism. There are numerous physical, chemical and biological transformation techniques.
There are direct and indirect approaches, respectively. Microinjection and electroporation are two physical techniques that involve direct transformation. DNA is incorporated into host cells through the process of electroporation, which creates small pores in the living cell membranes. While a micropipette or a fine-tipped glass needle is used in microinjection to deliver the DNA directly.
Table of Contents
- Electroporation
- Microinjection
- Difference between Electroporation Method and Microinjection Method
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Electroporation
DNA is introduced into protoplasts and plant cells via the transformation procedure known as electroporation. This method makes use of an electric pulse with high voltage. Plant samples are incubated in a DNA-containing buffer solution. Then an electric pulse with a high voltage is applied to the solution. Plant cell membranes develop high voltage-driven pores that allow DNA to go within the cells and combine with the genomic DNA of plants. The plants used and the conditions under which they are treated determine how effective this procedure is.
Only 40-50% of cells obtain DNA when the transformation is performed using electroporation. Additionally, this approach only allows 50% of the transformed cells to survive. However, this procedure is simple to perform and does not modify the biological configuration or function of cells. It can also be applied to various cells.
Microinjection
The transformation method of microinjection is particularly efficient when inserting DNA into giant cells. The microinjection technique introduces DNA into animal cells (eggs, oocytes, and embryos) or plant protoplasts using a micropipette (fine-tipped glass needle). This technique is more appropriate for producing transgenic mice. This process involves incorporating DNA straight into the cytoplasm or nucleus.
Microinjection is a method of direct transformation, much like electroporation. Microinjection is carried out using a specialised microscope setup. The effectiveness of this technique has been improved by computerised control of the microscope stage, needle, holding pipette, and video technologies. A dye can be utilised to determine transformed cells after DNA injection.
This technique is very trustworthy and effective. However, this procedure is expensive, time-consuming, and labour-intensive. Furthermore, this technique can only be used to treat a few cells.
Difference between Electroporation Method and Microinjection Method
|
Electroporation |
Microinjection |
|
It is a physical and direct transformation method which utilises an electric field to induce DNA into host cells. |
It is a physical and direct transformation approach that inserts DNA into host cells using a fine-tipped glass needle or micropipette. |
|
Can be used for a large number of cells |
Can be used to treat a small number of cells |
|
Not time-consuming |
Time-consuming method |
|
Induces microscopic pores in plasma membranes |
Does not induce any microscopic pore in plasma membranes |
|
Mainly used for protoplasts and plant cells |
Mainly used for animal cells |
|
Does not require any specialised microscope setup |
Requires specialised and computerised microscope setup |
|
Selection of transformed cells is not very easy |
Selection of transformed cells is easy |
Thus, this is the main difference between microinjection and electroporation. However, both procedures directly insert exogenous DNA into the host cells.
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