What are the different types of transfection?

Transfection is a method used to introduce foreign genetic material into eukaryotic cells in order to potentially change the genetic make-up of the host cell. There are two main types of transfection based on how long the introduced nucleic acid exists in the cell – transient transfection and stable transfection. 

Transient Transfection

Transient transfection refers to maintaining short-term expression of a transgene. In this method, a plasmid or oligonucleotides can be used to transfect nucleic acids. As host cells divide, transgenic expression will consequently finally disappear. Cells are harvested within 24-72 hrs. 

Stable Transfection

Stable transfection refers to maintaining long-term expression of a transgene. In this method, foreign DNA needs to be incorporated into the host nuclear genome. As cells replicate, the transgene may still be produced constitutively. Stable transfection is useful for studies into gene therapy, long-term gene regulation, long-term genetic and pharmacological investigations requiring large-scale protein synthesis, and creating stable cell lines.