Simple and versatile electrotransformation of Serratia marcescens Sr41

Abstract

Optimum conditions were determined for the electrotransformation of Serratia marcescens Sr41. The effects of electroporation buffers, growth conditions and electric field strength on transformation efficiency were examined. Under the optimal conditions established, the transformation efficiency was five orders of magnitude higher than that by the conventional CaCl2 method. This method enabled use of plasmids prepared by the mini-prep method. Freezing the cells in 100 g l-1 glycerol and prolonged storage at -80°C did not affect the transformation efficiency.