Lipid-based transfection

Lipid-based transfection uses cationic lipids which then combine with nucleic acids to form a “transfection complex” which will enter the cell. Although the molecular mechanism is not fully understood yet, it is known that the transfection complex electrostatically interacts with the cell membrane, entering via endocytosis to subsequently free the nucleic acid inside the cell.

This method is fast and uses easy protocols which do not require media changes. It also achieves high efficiency and expression performance and is applicable to a broad range of cell lines. Therefore, it is normal that most researchers choose this method for their transfection experiments.