GeneArt® Gene Synthesis FAQs

1.   Why should I outsource synthesis of my gene?
 

The key advantages of producing genes synthetically are the following:

• Less expensive than traditional cloning —saves money.

• Is typically quicker than cloning, saving time. Plus outsourcing means that your lab personnel can spend their time on other projects while your gene is being produced.

• Gene synthesis eliminates the design restrictions required in traditional cloning. Almost any DNA sequence can be synthesized.

• Gene synthesis provides access to DNA templates that do not exist in nature.

2.   What is gene optimization and how does it differ from codon optimization?

Our proprietary GeneOptimizer® software calculates the optimal DNA sequence needed to encode the protein of interest (gene optimization). Adapting the codon usage of the gene to the codon preferences of the expression organism (codon optimization) is just one of the parameters addressed. The GeneOptimizer® software currently evaluates up to 50 factors that can compromise mRNA stability, such as extreme GC content, ribosomal binding sites, consensus and cryptic splice sites, repeats, and secondary structures. Increased numbers of stable mRNA molecules often lead to higher yields of protein.

3.   What does your gene synthesis service include?

GeneArt® Gene Synthesis Service includes gene optimization (if requested), synthesis of the DNA, cloning into our standard vector, and delivery of 5 µg of lyophilized DNA plus a compact disc of the in silico analysis and quality control information.

 
4.   Can I have my gene delivered in my vector?

Yes. We can subclone your gene into a vector you provide. You will receive 5 µg each of your gene in a GeneArt® cloning vector and in your vector (plus the quality control information for both constructs).

5.   What information do you need in order to provide a price estimate?

For GeneArt® gene synthesis, we need the DNA or amino acid sequence of the gene you would like to receive, the host organism you plan to use (this is important for gene optimization if you choose to include it with your request), the restriction sites you need at the 5’/3’ ends and/or to avoid internally, and whether or not you want any other added motifs (e.g., Kozak sequence, stop codons, etc.).

6.   Describe the details of your site-directed mutagenesis services.

• 5'/3' deletion of any length with additional 60 nt of new sequence on each side

• 5'/3' modification of maximum 60 nt on each side

• 5'/3' extension of maximum 60 nt on each side

• Internal modifications of up to 40 nt

• Internal deletions of any length

• Modifications (whether internal or 5´/3´) have to be separated by at least 100 bp