eCell Technology for Cell-Free Protein Synthesis, Biosensing, and Remediation

The eCell technology is a recently introduced, specialized protein production platform with uses in a multitude of biotechnological applications. This chapter summarizes the use of eCell technology in four selected application areas. Firstly, for detecting heavy metal ions, specifically mercury, in an in vitro protein expression system. Results show improved sensitivity and lower limit of detection compared to comparable in vivo systems. Secondly, eCells are semipermeable, stable, and can be stored for extended periods of time, making them a portable and accessible technology for bioremediation of toxicants in extreme environments. Thirdly and fourthly, applications of eCell technology are shown to facilitate expression of correctly folded disulfide-rich proteins and incorporate chemically interesting derivatives of amino acids into proteins which are toxic to in vivo protein expression. Overall, eCell technology presents a cost-effective and efficient method for biosensing, bioremediation, and protein production.