This pulse controller is part of the Gene Pulser, one of the first commercial electroporators. Manufactured by Bio-Rad, the Gene Pulser was on the market from 1986 to 1995.
The pulse controller unit is used with the pulse generator (object number 1998.0018.01) for electroporation of bacteria and fungi.
Electroporation is a technique used to get drugs, proteins, DNA, and other molecules into cells. The method works by delivering a controlled electric pulse to cells in a solution. The pulse causes cells to briefly open pores in their cell membrane and take in molecules around them. The process is particularly useful in the creation of transgenic organisms.
Sources:
Accession File
Gene Pulser Product Manuals
“Electroporation Makes Impact on DNA Delivery in Laboratory and Clinic.” Glaser, Vicki. Genetic Engineering News, September 15, 1996. pp. 14–15.
“Electroporation applications: Special needs and special systems.” Ostresh, Mitra. American Biotechnology Laboratory. January 1995. p. 18.
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