FAQ: Can the ligation reaction produced by Salt-T4 DNA Ligase be directly used to transform electrocompetent cells?

We recommend purification of the ligation reaction prior to electroporation. The buffer must be removed or a spark will be generated by the salt present. Dialyze the sample or use a spin column to purify (we recommend Monarch nucleic acid purification kits). The PEG in StickTogether™ DNA Ligase Buffer prevents sparking, but it also prevents electroporation and must be removed by a spin column.