Novel method for mass production of recombinant proteins

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Researchers at Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a new process for production of recombinant proteins.

These are modified or manipulated proteins encoded by recombinant DNA (rDNA) for increasing production of proteins, modifying gene sequences, and manufacturing useful commercial products.
- rDNA is artificially made DNA strand that is formed by combination of two or more DNA molecules.
- rDNA technology can be used to combine (or splice) or transfer DNA from different species or to create genes with new functions.

RPs such as vaccine antigens, insulin and monoclonal antibodies, are mass-produced by growing modified bacterial, viral or mammalian cells in large bioreactors.
- Most widely used organism is yeast Pichia pastoris (now called Komagataella phaffii) and it utilizes methanol for production of RP.
- However, methanol is highly flammable and hazardous, requiring stringent safety precautions.
Researchers have now developed an alternative safer process that relies on a common food additive called mono-sodium glutamate (MSG).
Escherichia coli (E.Coli) is also one of the organisms of choice for RP production due to its well-characterized genetics, rapid growth, and high yield production.

Production of biotherapeutics: Such as insulin, growth hormones, and monoclonal antibodies.
Development of vector vaccines: Considered safer than traditional vaccines, as they do not contain live pathogens.
Agricultural: Used in development of genetically modified crops, increase nutritional value of animal feed etc.
Environmental: Used in bioremediation (process of using microorganisms to break down pollutants in the environment).