🧬 Production, Characterization, and Diverse Applications of Recombinant Proteins
Recombinant Proteins are proteins produced using molecular biology techniques where the gene encoding the protein of interest is cloned into a suitable expression vector and introduced into a host cell for synthesis. This process allows for the production of specific, high-purity proteins in large quantities for therapeutic, diagnostic, and research purposes.
Key Production Systems: The choice of host system is crucial as it affects the protein's proper folding and post-translational modifications, such as glycosylation. Common expression systems include:
Prokaryotic Systems: Primarily E. coli, known for high yield and low cost, but may not perform complex modifications.
Eukaryotic Systems: Mammalian cells, yeast, insect cells, and transgenic plants are used to produce complex proteins, often including those that require specific modifications (like glycosylation) to be fully functional in humans (e.g., monoclonal antibodies, certain hormones).
Therapeutic and Scientific Significance: