E. coli DNA Ligase

The main difference between the 2 enzymes is that E. coli DNA Ligase cannot ligate blunt dsDNA fragments. Both ligases can be used to repair single stranded nicks in duplex DNA and to perform cohesive or sticky end ligations. E. coli DNA Ligase is generally used to seal nicks during second strand cDNA synthesis, since T4 DNA Ligase could result in formation of chimeric inserts.

For cloning an insert with one cohesive end and one blunt end, use the conditions for blunt ends.  The sticky end may ligate quickly, but the blunt end ligation will still be inefficient. You should use the more stringent protocol to optimize the blunt end ligation. This usually means using more enzyme (5 U), a lower reaction temperature (14C) and a longer incubation time (16-24 hours). 

Low cDNA yield can result due to several different reasons. Please see a few listed below:

(1) Poor quality mRNA: visualize total RNA on a denaturing gel to verify that the 28S and 18S bands are sharp. OD 260:280 ratio should be 1.7.

(2) Template degraded by RNase contamination: maintain aseptic conditions.

(3) Inhibitors of SuperScript II RT may be present: remove inhibitors by ethanol precipitation of the RNA preparation before the first-strand reaction. Include a 70% (v/v) ethanol wash of the RNA pellet. Test for the presence of inhibitors by mixing 1 µg control RNA and comparing yields of first-strand cDNA.

(4) RNA preparation may have coprecipitated with polysaccharides: precipitate RNA with lithium chloride to purify RNA.

(5) mRNA concentrations were overestimated: quantitate the mRNA concentrations by measuring the A260 if possible.

(6) If using 32P-isotope, it may be too old: use isotope less than 2 weeks old.

(7) Not enough enzyme was used: use 200 U SuperScript II RT/µg RNA.

(8) SuperScript II RT activity was decreased by incorrect reaction temperature: perform the first-strand reaction at a temperature between 37 degrees C and 50 degrees C.

(9) DTT was not added to first-strand reaction.

(10) TCA precipitations were performed incorrectly: adequately dry GF/C filters before immersion into scintillant.

(11) SuperScript II RT was improperly stored: store at -20 degrees C. Do not store the enzyme at -70 degrees C.

(12) The reaction volume was too large: the reaction should be done in volumes less than or equal to 50 µL.

At least one molecule in a ligase reaction (i.e., insert or vector) must be phosphorylated. Ligation reactions are dependent on the presence of a 5' phosphate on the DNA molecules. The ligation of a dephosphorylated vector with an insert generated from a restriction enzyme digest (phosphorylated) is most routinely performed. Although only one strand of the DNA ligates at a junction point, the molecule can form a stable circle, providing that the insert is large enough for hybridization to maintain the molecule in a circular form.

Recommendations would vary depending on the size of the vector and insert or the nature of the insert, but for most plasmid cloning or subcloning reactions, a vector concentration of 1-10 ng/µl is recommended. Inserts should generally be 2- to 3-fold excess in molar concentration relative to the vector.