Mutagenesis PCR Protocol

Adapted from this paper.

Step 1: Design Primers

To use our primer design tool, click here.

Step 2: Run PCR Reaction

Follow the protocol for your favorite high fidelity DNA polymerase and buffer system. Don't have a favorite? Here is ours:

  • Buy this master mix.
  • Aliquot master mix and freeze
  • For each PCR reaction, mix:
    • 8.50 uL nuclease free water
    • 1.25 uL primer mix (10 µM each)
    • 0.75 uL DMSO
    • 2.00 uL of 2ng/uL template DNA
    • 12.5 uL master mix (add last, immediately before PCR)
  • Run this thermal cycler program
    • 98°C for 5 minutes
    • Repeat 30 times
      • 98°C for 30 seconds
      • Suggested annealing temp for 30 seconds
      • 72°C for 2-4 minutes, depending on plasmid size
    • 72°C for 5 minutes
    • Hold at 4°C

Step 3: Check PCR Reaction

Run an agarose gel to confirm that you have amplified the plasmid.

Step 4: Remove template DNA

To digest methylated DNA, add 0.5 uL DPNI to your PCR reaction (see more here).

    • Mix well and incubate at 37°C for 1 hour, or overnight at room temperture.

Step 5: Transform

Follow your the transformation protocol of your favorite competent cells. We transform with 2 uL.

Step 6: Pick Colonies and Sequence

Not all colonies will have the correct mutation. Pick approximately four of them, miniprep, and sequence.