Transformation of Escherichia coli Mediated by Natural Phospholipids

Abstract

Transformation system for Escherichia coli based upon introduction of plasmid DNA by natural phospholipids has been developed. Transformants are easily obtained by treatment with natural phospholipids such as phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcoline, and phosphatidylserine, where the presence of MgCl₂ or CaCl₂ is essential. This method of transformation is applicable not only for small plasmid pHSG399 (2.3 Kb) but also for giant plasmid R6K (100 Kb).