Reduce leaky expression: The LacI repressor protein binds to the lacO operator, blocking transcription of downstream genes. In the absence of an induction agent such as lactose sugar or IPTG, target protein expression from the adjacent promoter is greatly reduced.Obtain high protein yields: Both 10G and BL21(DE3)-based strains express high levels of protein. For expression from a T7 promoter, select the HI-Control BL21(DE3) strain. Other lac-based promoters like T5-lac, tac, trc, and lac, can be used in either HI-Control strain.Achieve high efficiency transformations: Highly efficient competent cells give excellent results from small amounts of plasmid DNA.Competent Cells include Control DNA and Recovery Medium, and are packaged as SOLOs (1 transformation per tube). Recovery Medium is also available separately. The specified transformation efficiencies are with pUC DNA, unless indicated otherwise.