electroporators

An electroporator is a device designed to introduce molecules such as DNA, RNA, or proteins into cells by applying brief, high-intensity electric pulses that transiently permeabilize the cell membrane. The technique, known as electroporation, relies on pulses that drive charged molecules into the cell while the membrane reseals afterward. Electroporators are used for both in vitro cell culture experiments and in vivo tissue or organism experiments, and they support a range of sample types from single-cell suspensions to thin tissue slices.

Most electroporators generate short-duration pulses, typically square or exponential decay profiles, with adjustable field strength, pulse duration, number of pulses, and interval between pulses. Field strengths span from tens to thousands of volts per centimeter depending on the system and cell type; pulse durations range from microseconds to milliseconds. The choice of electrodes—such as parallel-plate cuvettes, needle or clip electrodes—affects geometry and tissue penetration. Temperature and conductivity of the sample influence outcomes; cooling or buffering is often employed to reduce heat buildup and improve viability.

Applications include genetic modification of mammalian, bacterial, and plant cells, delivery of plasmid DNA, mRNA, siRNA, proteins, or CRISPR components, and in vivo delivery for vaccines or cancer therapies. In cell culture, electroporation can achieve high transfection efficiency with broad compatibility, but optimization is often required to balance uptake with viability. In tissues, precision applicators aim to localize effects while minimizing damage.

Typical systems combine a programmable pulse generator with an electrode setup and a control interface, and may include sterilizable consumables, impedance monitoring, and safety interlocks. The technique requires adherence to biosafety guidelines and careful optimization for each cell type and application.