Transfection is the process by which CRISPR ribonucleoprotein (RNP), DNA, and RNA molecules are delivered into cells. One challenging step of the CRISPR-Cas9 workflow is the transfection step—how to effectively deliver the CRISPR-Cas9 components into the cell line of choice. There are many methods of CRISPR delivery, however the most appropriate method depends on the application. 

CRISPR transfection solutions selection guide

Between the Neon NxT electroporation system and the Invitrogen Lipofectamine family of reagents, Thermo Fisher Scientific offers complete solutions for all CRISPR transfection needs. With each product, optimized protocols have been developed for ease of delivery and high transfection efficiency. Explore the guide below to find the best fit for your gene editing workflow needs.

CRISPR delivery methodCRISPR DNA
(Cas9 plasmid) 		CRISPR RNA
(Cas9 mRNA) 		CRISPR RNP
(Cas9 protein) 
Lipofectamine CRISPRMAX
 View CRISPRMAX Quick Reference Guide 		  ✓
Lipofectamine 3000 Transfection Reagent
 View Lipofectamine 3000 application note		✓✓ 
Neon NxT Electroporation System 
Search Neon Nxt protocols		✓✓✓
Lipofectamine MessengerMAX 
 View MessengerMAX protocol		 ✓ 
Lipofectamine Stem (recommended for stem cells)
View stem cell transfection protocols		✓✓✓

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CRISPR delivery methods

There are several CRISPR delivery methods, including lipid nanoparticle-mediated transfection and physical methods, such as electroporation and microinjection. 


CRISPR lipofection

Lipofection, also known as lipid nanoparticle-mediated transfection, is the process of delivering CRISPR DNA, RNA, or RNP into the cytoplasm of targeted cells via small cellular structures called liposomes.

Lipofectamine transfection reagents are used for easy CRISPR-Cas9 delivery to a broad range of cell types. Lipofectamine CRISPRMAX Cas9 transfection reagent is a premium solution for delivering RNP comprising a TrueCut Cas9 protein and TrueGuide Synthetic sgRNA.

product box and tubes containing Lipofectamine CRISPRMAX Cas9 Transfection Reagent

CRISPR electroporation

Neon NxT Electroporation System product photo

Often used to transfect difficult-to-transfect cells, electroporation applies electrical current to target cells, creating small openings in their membranes. These openings allow CRISPR-Cas9 components to enter the cells.

The Neon NxT Electroporation System is an excellent choice for CRISPR-Cas9 transfection of all mammalian cells including primary, stem, and difficult-to-transfect cells. 


CRISPR lentiviral transduction

Lentiviral transduction uses lentiviral vectors to transfer nucleic acids into the cell. Once the Cas9 lentivirus enters the cells, the CRISPR-Cas9 system modifies the cellular DNA. Subsequently, this transgenic host will continue to express the genetic modification. Lentiviral transduction is often used in the creation of stable cell lines that continually express the CRISPR-modified sequence of interest. 

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