Question

Which of the following methods can be used to make the plasmid vector enter the competent cell?

• A. Electroporation
• B. Potassium chloride treatment
• C. Heat shock
• D. Ultra diluted HCl

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (C)

Heat shock

The cell wall of bacteria is non porous, pores needs to be made on the cell wall through which the plasmid vector can enter. These pores are usually made by using the heat shock method or electroporation. In heat shock, sudden increase in temperature is used to create pores while in electroporation, it is the electric shock that achieves the same outcome.