Knowledge Base

A nucleotide sequence that allows for translation initiation in the middle of a messenger RNA (mRNA) sequence. Often used in front of a fluorescent marker to trace the efficiency of transfection of a certain DNA construct without the need for making a fusion molecule.

TTC corresponds to the 451 amino acids at the C-terminus of the protein. This non-toxic fragment of the TT is transported trans-synaptically (retrograde). It will drive the transport of most proteins fused to it and can thus be used to trace neuronal circuits.

Plant lectin (WGA) transported trans-synaptically, also used as a circuitry tracer. Contrary to TTC, WGA can be transferred via anterograde and retrograde transport.

Plant lectin (WGA) transported trans-synaptically, also used as a circuitry tracer. Contrary to TTC, WGA can be transferred via anterograde and retrograde transport.

CRE is a Type I topoisomerase from P1 bacteriophage that catalyzes site-specific recombination of DNA between loxP sites. Cre is used as a tool to modify genes and chromosomes. In this approach the Cre recombinase is used to delete a segment of DNA flanked by LoxP sites (aka ‘floxed’) in an experimental animal or a fragment of DNA of interest. Cre can be delivered to the cell nucleus as a purified protein or as part of a DNA construct that will lead to its production inside the cell.

Small protein fragments that can be fused to a protein of interest through DNA engineering and used in the purification or detection of the resulting fusion protein. Specific antibodies are available for common tags.

Segment of DNA that is thought to increase the expression level of genes through an improved nucleotransport of RNA. The effect of a WPRE are thought to be gene and promoter specific but should generally not lead to decreased expression levels of DNA.