Electroporation and Nucleofector^® Technology

Nucleofector^® Technology transfers molecules directly into the cell’s nucleus. This approach does not depend on cell proliferation. As a result, you can transfect non-dividing primary cells, such as resting T cells or neurons.

Three components drive performance:

1. Nucleofector^®  System: The system uses unique electrical parameters to deliver substrates into the nucleus and the cytoplasm. It’s available in different formats to support small scale, high throughput and large scale experiments.
2. Nucleofector^®  Kits: Kits include dedicated vessels and solutions. The solutions create a protective environment that supports high efficiency and viability while keeping physiologically relevant conditions.
3. Optimized protocols: Protocols give step-by-step guidance for optimal conditions. You can download optimized protocols from the Knowledge Center.

What is the basic principle of Nucleofector^® Technology?

Nucleofector^® Technology is a non-viral transfection method designed for primary cells and difficult-to-transfect cell lines. It combines electrical parameters with cell-type specific solutions. The method transports DNA directly into the nucleus. It also supports RNA and RNP delivery with high efficiency and high viability.

What is the advantage of Nucleofector^® Technology over common electroporation (systems)?

Researchers value the combination of high viability and high efficiency. Nuclear delivery is especially important for non-dividing cells.

Why is the Nucleofector^® Technology ideal for primary cells and difficult-to-transfect cell lines?

Direct nuclear delivery makes gene expression independent of cell division. This enables fast expression after transfection and can yield high efficiencies in many cases.

Can I use the Nucleofector^® Technology for CRISPR and other genome editing applications?

Yes. You can apply the technology to CRISPR and other genome editing workflows. You can also download the Genome Editing Publication List or visit our dedicated genome editing page.

Need further support? Contact a transfection specialist to discuss your transfection challenges.

4D-Nucleofector^® Core Unit:
The controlling unit 
 

The 4D-Nucleofector^® Core Unit controls the functional units. Use the touchscreen to define and save experiments, and connect units based on your workflow.

4D-Nucleofector^® X Unit: Transfecting various cell numbers in different formats

The 4D-Nucleofector^® X Unit supports both 20 µL strip formats and 100 µL single vessels. You can transfer conditions seamlessly between these vessels and other units (for example, 96-well or 384-well formats).

4D-Nucleofector^® Y Unit: Adherent electroporation 
 

The 4D-Nucleofector^® Y Unit supports adherent electroporation. It can help protect delicate primary cells such as neurons and maintain function while achieving up to 70% efficiency. To find out more, visit the 4D-Nucleofector^® Y Unit product page.
 

4D-Nucleofector^® 96-well Unit: Increased throughput – 96-well transfection

Use the 4D-Nucleofector^® 96-well Unit for screening, e.g. CRISPR screens, and optimization in a 96-well format. You can control each well independently across diverse primary cells and cell lines (10⁴–10⁶ cells per reaction). It also allows transfection in an automated workflow and even the transformation of bacteria and yeast. Learn more by visiting the 4D-Nucleofector^® 96-well Unit page or watch our video about easy transfer of transfection conditions.

4D-Nucleofector^® LV Unit PRO: Next-generation large-scale electroporation

For large-scale transfection of up to 1 billion cells, this unit offers closed, sterile processing in volumes from 0.5 to 20 mL. Quickly translate research results into a GMP compliant cell therapy manufacturing process with GMP-grade TheraPEAK^® Consumables, and a 21CFR part 11 compliant software and IQOQ services.