| abstract |
Electrocompetent cells are prepackaged in a sterilized cuvette, and the cell contents frozen, such that electroporation can be performed simply by first thawing the cuvette contents, then electrically connecting the cuvette to a power source suitable for electroporation. The cuvette contains, in addition to the cells, a suspending medium, and optionally also a cryoprotectant for the cells. This invention also resides in a process for preparing electroporation cells for use, or alternatively for shipping or transport, comprising forming a suspension of the cells in a suspending medium preferably comprising a cryoprotectant, placing the cell suspension in a sterilized electroporation cuvette, and quickly freezing the cells while in the cuvette. The cells are then stored, and/or shipped or transported under subzero (Celsius) temperatures for subsequent use. |