What is Transfection?
Transfection is a procedure that produces genetically modified cells. Transfection is a powerful tool in biological research. It enables the study of gene products and the function of genes within cells. Methods used to achieve transfection fall into one of three categories: biological, chemical, or physical, according to Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry.
Researchers use transfection to inhibit or enhance specific gene expression in cells as well as to produce recombinant proteins. Examples include induced pluripotent stem cell (iPS cell) generation, small interference RNA (siRNA) knock-down procedures, and delivery of gene therapy to alleviate the symptoms of or even cure a disease.