transfect: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “transfect” mean?
To introduce foreign DNA or RNA into a eukaryotic cell, typically to study gene function or produce proteins.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To introduce foreign DNA or RNA into a eukaryotic cell, typically to study gene function or produce proteins.
The process of deliberately introducing nucleic acids into cells using non-viral methods, such as chemical reagents, electroporation, or physical delivery.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Spelling follows standard conventions (e.g., 'practise/practice' in related noun forms).
Connotations
None beyond the technical meaning.
Frequency
Used with identical frequency and meaning in molecular biology contexts in both UK and US English.
Grammar
How to Use “transfect” in a Sentence
transfect [cells] with [DNA/RNA]transfect [DNA/RNA] into [cells]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “transfect” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We need to transfect the HEK293 cells with the GFP plasmid tomorrow.
- The lab is practising how to transfect primary neurons efficiently.
American English
- We will transfect the HeLa cells with the siRNA using Lipofectamine.
- The protocol explains how to transfect a plasmid into adherent cells.
adjective
British English
- The transfected culture showed strong fluorescence.
- We analysed the transfection efficiency.
American English
- The transfected cells were harvested after 48 hours.
- Optimal transfection conditions must be determined.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Common in molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, and biotechnology research papers and protocols.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
The primary context. Refers to a standard laboratory procedure.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “transfect”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “transfect”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “transfect”
- Using 'transfect' for bacterial transformation.
- Using 'transfect' as a noun (the correct noun is 'transfection').
- Confusing 'transfect' (non-viral) with 'transduce' (viral).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Transform' is used for introducing DNA into bacterial or plant cells. 'Transfect' is specifically for introducing nucleic acids into animal or other eukaryotic cells using non-viral methods.
No, the correct noun form is 'transfection' (e.g., 'We performed a transfection').
No, it is an artificial laboratory technique. Natural gene transfer between cells is termed 'transduction' (viral) or 'conjugation' (bacterial).
Common methods include using chemical reagents (lipofection, calcium phosphate), physical methods (electroporation, microinjection), or lipid nanoparticles.
To introduce foreign DNA or RNA into a eukaryotic cell, typically to study gene function or produce proteins.
Transfect is usually technical / scientific in register.
Transfect: in British English it is pronounced /trænsˈfekt/, and in American English it is pronounced /trænsˈfekt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'TRANSfer inFECTION' – you're transferring genetic material into a cell, mimicking an infection process but without a virus.
Conceptual Metaphor
CELL AS A FACTORY: Transfecting is like delivering a new blueprint (DNA) to the factory's control room to make it produce a new product.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'transfect'?