Best Practices For Selecting Controls In Gene Expression Experiments

Plasmid-based experiments have revolutionized biological research. Scientists use this technique to induce and silence the expression of specific proteins in in vitro and in vivo models as they investigate the mechanisms underlying health and disease.

Plasmids comprise small circular DNA molecules that can be molecularly engineered to express a specific gene. Host cells receive several copies of the plasmid through transfection and then use their own metabolic machinery to transcribe the gene of interest. In some experiments, the final molecule is a protein or enzyme. In others, plasmids encode small interfering RNA (siRNA) or short hairpin RNA (shRNA), which then silence the expression of other genes.

Scientists can use plasmid-based experiments in many ways to answer various research questions. But without proper controls, acquired data will be inconclusive and unreliable. This blog answers frequently asked questions about selecting appropriate controls, so you can confidently design your next plasmid-based experiment. It also highlights how the eZ-stop peptide can simplify the process and provide an effective solution for all your experimental control needs.