Protein expression in mammalian cells

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Protein expression in mammalian cells refers to the process of producing proteins using mammalian cell lines. Mammalian cells, such as Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells or human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells, are commonly used for this purpose due to their ability to correctly fold and modify proteins. This technique allows for the production of recombinant proteins, which can be used for various applications in research, drug development, and biotechnology.

Mammalian cell lines(KH Khan et al.,2013)

Protein expression in mammalian cells is a complex and highly regulated process. It involves the manipulation of mammalian cells to produce specific proteins of interest. This process begins with the introduction of a gene encoding the desired protein into the mammalian cells. The cells then use their own machinery to transcribe and translate the gene, resulting in the production of the target protein.

Service Process Applications FAQs

Service Process

Our Protein Expression in Mammalian Cells service follows a systematic process to ensure high-quality protein production. We have a team of experienced scientists and state-of-the-art facilities to support your protein expression needs. The steps involved in our service process typically include:

Gene optimization and synthesis: We work closely with you to optimize and synthesize the gene of interest for optimal protein expression in mammalian cells. Our experts use advanced bioinformatics tools and techniques to enhance the expression efficiency and stability of the gene.
Cell line selection: Based on your requirements, we choose the most suitable mammalian cell line for protein expression. Factors such as protein type, yield, and post-translational modifications are carefully considered during the selection process. This ensures that the chosen cell line can efficiently produce the desired protein with the desired characteristics.
Transfection or transduction: Once the gene of interest and the selected cell line are ready, we introduce the gene into the mammalian cells using transfection or transduction techniques. Transfection involves the delivery of the gene into the cells using various methods, such as lipid-based transfection reagents or electroporation. Transduction, on the other hand, utilizes viral vectors to deliver the gene into the cells. These techniques ensure efficient gene delivery and initiation of protein expression.
Protein purification: Once the protein is expressed, we employ various purification methods to isolate and purify the target protein. Protein purification is a critical step to remove unwanted cellular components and contaminants, ensuring the final product is of high quality and purity. We utilize chromatography techniques, such as affinity chromatography, ion exchange chromatography, and size exclusion chromatography, to achieve optimal protein purification.
Quality control and characterization: To ensure the quality and functionality of the expressed protein, we perform rigorous quality control tests. These tests assess the functional activity, stability, and purity of the protein. Techniques such as SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, and enzymatic assays are used to characterize the expressed protein. This comprehensive quality control process guarantees that the protein meets your specifications and is suitable for your intended applications.

If you have any further questions or would like to discuss your specific protein expression requirements, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our team is ready to assist you in achieving your protein expression goals.

Applications

Protein expression in mammalian cells has a wide range of applications. It is commonly used in the production of therapeutic proteins, such as antibodies, enzymes, and hormones. These proteins are essential for the development of new drugs and treatments for various diseases. Additionally, protein expression in mammalian cells plays a crucial role in studying protein structure and function, protein-protein interactions, and drug discovery. It enables researchers to investigate the behavior and characteristics of proteins in a more native cellular environment, which is important for understanding their biological functions and developing effective therapies.

Application Area	Description
Biopharmaceutical Production	Mammalian cells are commonly used for the production of therapeutic proteins, such as monoclonal antibodies and recombinant proteins, due to their ability to perform complex post-translational modifications essential for bioactivity.
Basic Research and Functional Genomics	Mammalian cells serve as valuable tools for studying gene function, signaling pathways, and cellular processes. Protein expression in these cells enables researchers to investigate protein interactions, localization, and functions.
Vaccine Development	Mammalian cells play a role in the expression of viral antigens for vaccine development. This enables the production of vaccines that closely mimic natural infections, leading to robust immune responses and vaccine efficacy.
Structural Biology and Drug Discovery	Protein expression in mammalian cells is essential for obtaining correctly folded and post-translationally modified proteins, crucial for structural studies and drug discovery efforts targeting specific protein targets implicated in disease.
Cell-Based Therapies and Regenerative Medicine	Mammalian cells are used to express therapeutic proteins for cell-based therapies and regenerative medicine applications, where the produced proteins contribute to the modulation or regeneration of specific tissues for therapeutic purposes.
Diagnostic Assay Development	Protein expression in mammalian cells is employed for the development of diagnostic assays, such as immunoassays, enabling the detection of specific proteins as biomarkers for various diseases and conditions.

FAQs

Q: How long does the protein expression process take?

A: The timeline for protein expression in mammalian cells can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the protein, the chosen expression system, and the required protein yield. Generally, it can range from a few weeks to several months. Our team will work closely with you to determine the estimated timeline for your specific project.

Q: Can you handle large-scale protein expression projects?

A: Yes, we have the capabilities to handle both small-scale and large-scale protein expression projects. Our facilities and expertise allow us to accommodate varying project sizes and deliver high-quality results. We have the necessary infrastructure and equipment to scale up protein expression processes, ensuring efficient and reliable production of large quantities of proteins.

Q: Do you provide assistance with the design of expression constructs?

A: Yes, our team of experts can assist you with the design and optimization of expression constructs tailored to your specific needs. We understand that the design of expression constructs is crucial for efficient protein expression in mammalian cells. Our experts will work closely with you to ensure that the construct is optimized for high expression levels and proper folding of the target protein.

Q: What are the advantages of protein expression in mammalian cells compared to other expression systems?

A: Protein expression in mammalian cells offers several advantages over other expression systems. One major advantage is the ability to produce complex proteins with correct folding and post-translational modifications. Mammalian cells have the machinery required for proper protein folding and modification, resulting in proteins that closely resemble their native counterparts. This is particularly important for applications that require proteins with specific structures and functions.

Additionally, mammalian cells provide a more native cellular environment compared to other expression systems, such as bacterial or yeast cells. This native environment can be critical for studying protein-protein interactions, protein function, and drug discovery. Mammalian cells also offer the advantage of producing proteins with human-like glycosylation patterns, which is important for the development of therapeutic glycoproteins.

Q: Can you work with non-mammalian cells for protein expression?

A: While our primary expertise lies in protein expression in mammalian cells, we also have experience working with other expression systems, such as bacterial and yeast cells. These systems offer their own advantages and may be more suitable for certain protein expression projects. Our team can assess your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate expression system for your desired protein.

Q: What is the typical yield of protein expression in mammalian cells?

A: The yield of protein expression in mammalian cells can vary depending on factors such as the specific protein, the chosen expression system, and the optimization strategies employed. However, mammalian cells are known for their ability to produce high-quality proteins with yields ranging from micrograms to grams per liter of culture. Our team will work closely with you to optimize expression conditions and maximize protein yield for your project.

Q: Can you assist with downstream applications of the expressed proteins?

A: Yes, we can provide assistance with downstream applications of the expressed proteins. Our team has expertise in protein characterization, functional assays, and downstream processing techniques. Whether you require further purification, activity assays, or other specific analyses, we can tailor our services to meet your needs and support your downstream applications.

Q: Do you offer custom protein expression services?

A: Yes, we offer custom protein expression services to meet the specific requirements of our clients. Our team can work closely with you to develop a customized strategy for protein expression, purification, and downstream applications. We understand that each protein is unique, and we are committed to providing tailored solutions to meet your research and development goals.

Please note that all services are for research use only. Not intended for any clinical use.

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