New recombinant SARS-CoV-2 proteins, along other proteins associated with covid-19, from U-Protein Express (UPE), Utrecht, Netherlands, are now available for use by researchers globally for the design and discovery of novel therapeutics, vaccines, and diagnostic test kits for coronavirus. UPE is a subsidiary of ImmunoPrecise Antibodies, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
“UPE’s management stepped up immediately in early January, soon after the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, and began the construct design and manufacturing of proteins that play a central role in the infection of human lung tissue by the SARS-CoV-2 virus,” says Roland Romijn, PhD, head of general pperations at UPE. “By using ImmunoPrecise’s proprietary rPExTM protein production platform, we have produced high-quality, high-yield batches of multiple subunits of the viral spike protein, and other SARS-CoV-2-related proteins, which we believe are useful reagents for the analysis of, and generation of, antibody therapeutics, vaccines, and diagnostics. We continue to focus on the development of new, SARS-CoV-2-related recombinant proteins to support the scientific community in this crucial, global effort.”
These proteins are now available to the scientific community to help combat the current covid-19 pandemic crisis. The recombinant coronavirus proteins (and other proteins related to SARS-CoV-2 infection) are produced using ImmunoPrecise’s proprietary rPEx protein production platform, utilizing transient transfection of HEK293 cells. In contrast to more basic recombinant protein expression platforms like E. coli cells or insect cells, the rPEx platform generates superior recombinant proteins that more closely resemble the native conformations of the proteins. This is especially important for retaining the functions of the heavily glycosylated, viral spike protein.
“The success of this program at UPE is an exemplary demonstration of the selfless efforts, unity, and determination that have arisen within ImmunoPrecise as part of our larger, global efforts in fighting coronavirus,” says Jennifer Bath, PhD, president and chief executive officer of ImmunoPrecise. “The substantive time and energy dedicated by this team have not only enabled this much needed support to the broader scientific community but have also served as a cornerstone in our own efforts at IPA, as we continue to rapidly advance our coronavirus therapeutic, vaccine and diagnostic programs.”
For more information, visit U-Protein Express and ImmunoPrecise.
