Heat shock transformation... how does it works? - (Aug/04/2008 )

I can't find how the heat shock transformation works. It seems that nobody knows! Is it like that? Anyone knows how it works? I mean... I'd like to know the physical mechanism involved in this method.

Thank you!

---

I guess the heat will enlarge the pore on the cell membrane, and then the plasmid can enter into the cell easily.

---

I would also like to know how heat shock works. Does maybe someone know a source about it? I went through tons of scientific research papers, and just none described how heat shock works. Most of them just talked about, that it increases transformation efficiency. Since I want to write an essay, I would need some profound information. I'm kind of desperate already.

AS mikkel
It would be great if you had a source about that.

I also read about a thermal gradient which helps the plasmids to enter the cells. But I just can't find a source, which says how that works...

Thanks!

---

Here's how I understand it.

Adding the plasmid to the cells on ice makes the plasmid adhere to the cell wall. The heat shock does open the pores (made by the preparation of competent cells) and gets the plasmid to enter the cell. Placing the cells on ice after the shock closes the pores and prevent the plasmid to escape.

---

That sounds very similar to what I've read, and I think that's more or less the answer.

I found something here:


I guess this article would be exactly the right one, unfortunately you have to buy it... so here is only the abstract:
abstract

If anyone knows a similar, free article, please tell!

---

Hey Toulouse, thank you very much!!! I'll do everything what I can to get that paper. If I make it, I'll send you a pdf copy. Even here the bioforumers could be interested in getting the paper... so thanks again...

Alex

---