Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 28, 2026

HeLa Based Cell Free Expression Systems for Expression of Plasmodium Rhoptry Proteins
Published on: June 10, 2015
Structural genomics on membrane proteins: comparison of more than 100 GPCRs in 3 expression systems
Kenneth Lundstrom1, Renaud Wagner, Christoph Reinhart
1Bioxtal, Chemin des Croisettes 22, Epalinges CH-1066, Switzerland.
Abstract:
Production of recombinant receptors has been one of the major bottlenecks in structural biology on G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The MePNet (Membrane Protein Network) was established to overexpress a large number of GPCRs in three major expression systems, based on Escherichia coli, Pichia pastoris and Semliki Forest virus (SFV) vectors. Evaluation by immunodetection demonstrated that 50% of a total of 103 GPCRs were expressed in bacterial inclusion bodies, 94% in yeast cell membranes and 95% in SFV-infected mammalian cells. The expression levels varied from low to high and the various GPCR families and subtypes were analyzed for their expressability in each expression system. More than 60% of the GPCRs were expressed at milligram levels or higher in one or several systems, compatible to structural biology applications. Functional activity was determined by binding assays in yeast and mammalian cells and the correlation between immunodetection and binding activity was analyzed.
Related Concept Videos
Size and Structure of Viral Genomes
Evolutionary Relationships through Genome Comparisons
Protein and Protein Structure
A protein's shape is critical to its function. For example, an enzyme...
Introduction to Membrane Proteins
Structural Protein Function
Collagen, the most abundant protein in mammals, is found throughout the body. In connective tissue, such as skin, ligaments, and tendons, it provides tensile strength and elasticity. In bones and teeth, it mineralizes to...
Protein and Protein Structures

