PCR, qPCR, and RT-PCR: Supplies Mg2+ cofactor for DNA/RNA polymerases; adjust concentration to optimize amplification fidelity and yield.

Isothermal Amplification (e.g., LAMP): Provides essential Mg2+ for polymerase activity and primer annealing in constant-temperature assays.

Enzyme Reactions: Supports Mg2+-dependent enzymes (polymerases, kinases, nucleases) for accurate activity and kinetics.

Preparation of SOB/SOC Media: Added as a magnesium source for efficient chemical transformation and recovery of E. coli.

Minimal Media Supplementation: Used in M9 and other defined media as the Mg2+ source for growth of E. coli and yeast.

Bacteriophage Work: Component of SM buffer and phage propagation/titration protocols with E. coli hosts.

Competent Cell Preparation: Enhances transformation efficiency during preparation and recovery of competent E. coli.

Cell-Free Protein Expression: Titrated to optimize ribosome function and translation efficiency in lysate-based systems.