LB and SOC

LB allows doubling of healthy E. coli every 20 minutes during log phase at 37°C. Rich media allows more efficient use of energy and carbon transformation than defined, minimal media. Growing exponentially, 50% of the carbon bonds in glucose provide the energy to convert the other 50% of the carbon bonds and molecules into cell components.

SOB/SOC contains twice the Bacto® tryptone of LB and provides protein precursors for rapid repair of cell walls damaged by the generation of competent cells and the electroporation process, and maintains isotonicity to prevent cell death by osmotic rupture. SOC contains glucose for easy energy conversion.