A plasmid DNA used to reduce the amount of an expression vector or reporter vector in mammalian cell transfection without reducing the overall amount of DNA. Dilution of reporter DNA into Transfection Carrier DNA results in lowered expression of the protein of interest, overcoming artifacts due to overexpression. This is especially relevant when strong, constitutive promoters (e.g., CMV) are used. Depending on the applicaiton, the ratio of reporter to Transfection Carrier DNA may require optimization.