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Source- This post on Recombinant Proteins has been created based on the article “IISc researchers develop novel method for mass production of recombinant proteins” published in “The Hindu” on 1 June 2024.
Why in News?
Researchers at the Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science have devised an innovative method for producing recombinant proteins.
About Recombinant Proteins
1. Recombinant Proteins: They are proteins that are artificially produced by introducing specific genes(Recombinant DNA) into host organisms, such as bacteria or yeast. These genes instruct the host organisms to manufacture the desired protein.
2. Types of Recombinant Proteins: There are various types based on their applications and production methods. Some of the well know recombinant protein types are interferons, recombinant hormones, tumor necrosis factors, tumor necrosis factors, etc.
3. Examples: Examples of recombinant proteins include human insulin for diabetes, human growth factors for growth hormone deficiency, Factor VIII for hemophilia, and therapeutic monoclonal antibodies for treating cancer and viral infections like SARS-CoV-2.
4. Process of Production: Recombinant protein production involves inserting a modified gene into a suitable vector (like a plasmid) and transferring it into host cells (like bacteria or yeast). It involves:
a) Insert Gene: A gene is modified and inserted into a vector.
b) Transfer to Cells: The vector is introduced into host cells.
c) Cell Growth: These cells are grown in a culture until they reach high concentration.
d) Harvesting: After growing, the cells are harvested to obtain the recombinant protein.
5. Applications of Recombinant Proteins:
a) Biomedical Research: It is used to understand health and disease mechanisms.
b) Biotherapeutics: It is employed in the development of biotherapeutic products.
c) Protein-Based Polymers: They are also utilized in drug delivery systems.
d) Disease Treatment: It is used to produce antibodies and enzymes.
e) Tissue Engineering: It provide protein scaffolds for tissue engineering applications.
About Protein
1. A protein is a large, complex molecule that is a key building block of life.
2. Role in Biological Systems:
a) Facilitator: Proteins facilitate most biological processes in a cell, including gene expression, cell growth, proliferation, nutrient uptake, intercellular communication, and apoptosis.
b) Synthesis Blueprint: The blueprint for protein synthesis is stored in DNA, which serves as a template for regulated transcriptional processes to produce messenger RNA (mRNA).
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