RNA - FAQ

Our in vitro-synthesized mRNAs and saRNAs are purified using a combination of precipitation and Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF). These robust techniques effectively remove process-related impurities such as residual nucleotides, and residual enzymes, ensuring a high-purity final product.

The 5' cap structure is a key determinant of RNA stability and translational efficiency. Our RNAs are capped with Cap1 structure, incorporated either co-transcriptionally using ExploCap analog or post-transcriptionally by enzymatic means for maximizeds protein expression. Uncapped RNA or Cap0 can be synthesized upon custom request.

We offer a range of chemically modified nucleotides to improve RNA stability, reduce innate immune response, and enhance translational efficiency. Available modifications include 5-methoxyUrindine (moU), N1-methylpseudouridine (m1Ψ), and 5-methylcytidine (m5C) for instance and many others upon request. Please note that fluorescent-labelled nucleotides can also be incorporated. Please refer to individual product pages for the specific modifications available.

The 5' and 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) play a critical role in RNA stability and translational efficiency. Our standard RNAs bear optimized UTR sequences for optimal expression.

Each mRNA and saRNA batch undergoes a comprehensive quality control workflow that includes:

• Concentration measurement (spectrophotometry).
• Purity assessment via 260/280 and 260/230 absorbance ratios.
• Integrity analysis by agarose gel electrophoresis and HPLC.

Poly(A) tail length is a critical quality attribute, as it directly influences RNA stability and translational efficiency in both in vitro and in vivo settings. Poly(A) tail length is evaluated by semi-quantitative analysis as part of our characterization workflow.

Our mRNAs and saRNAs are provided at a final concentration of 1.0 mg/mL in 1 mM sodium citrate buffer, pH 6.4. This concentration is optimized for RNA stability during storage and is compatible with downstream formulation processes or direct use.

We recommend storing our RNA products at −80°C. Under these conditions, product integrity is guaranteed for one year from the date of receipt. To preserve RNA quality, avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and keep samples on ice during handling.

Yes. Based on our in-house characterization data using eGFP mRNA as a model:

• Cellular uptake begins as early as 20 minutes post-transfection.
• Protein expression is detectable as soon as 4 hours post transfection*.
• Expression peaks at approximately 24 hours depending on cell types*.
• Signal remains detectable up to 72 hours post-transfection*.

These kinetics are broadly representative of most mRNAs in our catalog, though expression levels and timing may vary depending on the target protein and the cell type used.

*Regarding saRNA, expression peaks at approximately 48 hours depending on cell types and signal remains detectable for longer time (up to 1 week in DC2.4 and several weeks in HEK293 cells).

Yes, our mRNA products are compatible with most commercially available transfection reagents. However, for optimal transfection efficiency, we recommend our dedicated reagents RmesFect™ (#RM21000) and RmesFect™ Stem (#RS31000), specifically developed for efficient mRNA delivery. For best results, follow the product guidelines and titrate the mRNA amount according to your cell type and application.

Yes. We operate a dedicated custom synthesis platform for both mRNA or saRNA, capable of producing RNA from any sequences of choice. Whether you are working on a research construct, a therapeutic candidate, or a reporter system, we can tailor the synthesis to your specifications, including nucleotide modifications, fluorescent labeling, and codon optimization.

• More information here for custom mrna synthesis service.
• More information here for custom sarna synthesis service.

Custom mRNA and saRNA synthesis from a provided sequence typically takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks. For projects also requiring downstream formulation, such as LNP encapsulation, please refer to our dedicated LNP formulation service for associated timelines.

You can easily request a quote by filling in our dedicated form for custom mRNA synthesis or our dedicated form for custom saRNA synthesis. If you need further guidance or wish to discuss your project and specific requirements with our technical team, feel free to contact us — we will be happy to arrange a meeting at your convenience.

The minimum order quantity for custom mRNA and saRNA synthesis is 0.2 mg. For specific requirements outside this range, please contact us to discuss available options.

Yes. Codon optimization is available for the species of your choice, including human, mouse, and rat. Optimizing codon usage can significantly improve translation efficiency and protein yield in the target organism, and is particularly recommended for constructs intended for in vivo use or when high expression levels are required.

All our custom mRNA and saRNA are purified and undergo rigorous quality control before delivery. We offer two levels of QC depending on your requirements:

Standard QC includes:

• Concentration measurement (spectrophotometry).
• Purity assessment via 260/280 and 260/230 absorbance ratios.
• Integrity analysis by agarose gel electrophoresis and HPLC profiling.
• Sterility testing.

Superior Grade QC includes all Standard QC checks, plus:

• Endotoxin testing.
• dsRNA quantification.
• Protein expression (when possible, i.e. fluo proteins, antibody available.)

Please refer to our mrna quoting tool or sarna quoting tool to select the QC level that best fits your project requirements.

By default, 1 mg of mRNA or saRNA is supplied in a single vial at 1mg/mL. However, aliquoting is available upon request. Simply specify your preferred aliquot size or number of vials when placing your order and we will accommodate your needs.