quick question

[John Watson]

Rani Geha wrote:
> 
> What is the difference between transfection and transformation?

As I understand the terms:

Transfection (1) Introduction of foreign DNA into a (usually) mammalian 
                 cell in culture, usually by chemical means.
             (2) Transfer of genetic information into E. coli (or other 
                 bacteria) by a transducing bacteriophage.

Transformation (1) Introduction of foreign DNA into single-celled 
                   organisms such as bacteria and yeast by chemical 
                   means.
               (2) Progression/alteration of more or less normal 
                   cultured mammalian cells to a more neoplastic 
                   phenotype (can include anchorage independence, 
                   release from contact inhibition, ability to form
                   tumors in nude mice, etc.)

Cheers,

AJW

----------------
John Watson
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.
watson_j at bms.com
---------------------------------------------------------------------
"If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the precipitate."
---------------------------------------------------------------------