Guide to Electroporation and Electrofusion

Electroporation is an efficient method to introduce macromolecules such as DNA into a wide variety of cells. Electrofusion results in the fusion of cells and can be used to produce genetic hybrids or hybridoma cells. "Guide to Electroporation and Electrofusion" is designed to serve the needs of students, experienced researchers, and newcomers to the field. It is a comprehensive manual that presents, in one source, up-to-date, easy-to-follow protocols necessary for efficient electroporation and electrofusion of bacteria, yeast, and plant and animal cells, as well as background information to help users optimize their results through comprehension of the principles behind these techniques. It covers: fundamentals of electroporation and electrofusion in detail; molecular events; mechanisms; and kinetics. It gives extensive practical information; the latest applications; controlling parameters to maximize efficiency; and available instrumentation. It presents applications of electroporation and electrofusion in current research situations. It includes state-of-the-art modifications to electrical pulses and generators; and application of electroporation and electrofusion to unique, alternative cell and tissue types. It gives straightforward, detailed, easy-to-follow protocols for: formation of human hybridomas; introduction of genetic material into plant cells and pollen; transfection of mammalian cells; transformation of bacteria, plants, and yeast; production of altered embryos; and optimization of electroporation by using reporter genes. It is comprehensive and up-to-date; contains convenient bench-top format; and includes approximately 125 illustrations that complement the text. It includes complete references with article titles, and is written by leading authorities in electroporation and electrofusion.