Electroporation is a process used in molecular biology to introduce DNA into cells through the application of an electrical field. The spelling of this word can be explained using the IPA phonetic transcription, which would be /ɪˌlɛktrəpoʊreɪʃən/. The first syllable is pronounced as "ee-lek", with the stress on the second syllable "-trə". The "poʊ" in the third syllable has a long "o" sound, and the final syllable "-shən" ends with a schwa sound. Remembering this spelling can be helpful when studying this important process in molecular biology.
Electroporation is a scientific technique used in molecular biology and biotechnology to introduce foreign genetic material into cells by using an electric field. It involves the application of short, high-voltage pulses to cells in order to temporarily create small pores or holes in their cell membranes, allowing the passage of DNA, RNA, or other molecules into the cells.
The term "electroporation" is derived from the combination of "electro" (referring to electricity) and "poration" (referring to the creation of pores). It is also sometimes known as electropermeabilization or electrotransfer.
The process of electroporation begins by preparing a suspension of cells mixed with the desired genetic material, typically plasmid DNA. This cell suspension is then exposed to a brief, intense electric shock, which causes the cell membranes to become temporarily permeable. The electric field disrupts the lipid bilayer of the cell membrane and creates transient aqueous pores, through which the foreign molecules can enter the cells.
Electroporation has gained widespread popularity in genetic engineering and gene therapy research because it offers a highly efficient and precise method of transferring genetic material into target cells. By establishing an electric field of appropriate strength and duration, this technique allows for the introduction of foreign genes or other biologically active molecules into a variety of cell types. The newfound genetic material can then be expressed within the cells, altering their properties or functions for therapeutic, research, or commercial purposes. Electroporation has revolutionized the field of molecular biology, enabling scientists to manipulate cells and genes in ways that were previously unattainable.
The term "electroporation" is derived from the combination of two words: "electro" and "poration".
- "Electro" is derived from the Greek word "ēlektron", which means "amber". In ancient Greece, it was observed that certain materials, like amber, when rubbed, produced a static electric charge. The term "electricity" is derived from this.
- "Poration" is derived from the Latin word "porus", which means "passage" or "pore". Poration refers to the process of creating pores or channels in a structure.
Therefore, "electroporation" refers to the process of creating temporary pores or channels in the cell membrane using electric pulses.