What are membrane proteins?

Membrane proteins are a diverse class of proteins that are embedded within or attached to the lipid bilayer of cell membranes. Membrane proteins can be divided into three classes: peripheral membrane proteins, lipid-anchored proteins, and integral membrane proteins. They play crucial roles in various cellular processes, including signal transduction, transport of molecules across membranes, cell-cell communication, and cell adhesion.

Conventional methods, such as the Mammalian System, Baculovirus-Insect System, Bacterial System, and Yeast System, for the preparation of integral membrane proteins have intrinsic limits in membrane proteins' expression, because the production of membrane proteins is a challenging task as their hydrophobic nature and their specific requirements in cellular expression systems frequently prevent an efficient synthesis. So far, a considerable number of membrane proteins from diverse families like prokaryotic small multidrug transporters (SMTs) or eukaryotic G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been produced in cell-free systems in high amounts and in functionally active forms.

What can we offer?

Alpha Lifetech’s membrane protein expression service offers cutting-edge solutions for the production of challenging membrane proteins, including GPCRs, ion channels, and virus-like particles.

Advantages of membrane protein production:

-By leveraging advanced technologies and optimized protocols, researchers can obtain high-purity membrane protein samples, enabling accurate structural and functional studies.

- Our team of experienced scientists possesses in-depth knowledge of membrane protein expression and purification, ensuring the successful production of high-quality proteins.

- Our service includes rigorous quality control measures to ensure the integrity and functionality of the expressed membrane proteins.

- Multiple protein expression systems include cell-free expression system,  Baculovirus-insect system, and HEK293 cell expression system

- Multiple purification strategies include affinity labeling, resin, or magnetic bead purification.

Workflow Of Membrane Protein Production

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FAQS About Membrane Protein Production

1.What are the types of membrane proteins？
Integral membrane proteins, peripheral membrane proteins, and lipid-anchored proteins.

2.Why choose ultra-pure detergent when membrane protein dissolves and what should be chosen?
The use of an ultra-pure detergent is crucial for effective membrane protein dissolution. It helps solubilize the protein by disrupting the lipid bilayer and stabilizing the protein in solution.
Here are a few commonly used ultra-pure detergents for membrane protein solubilization:
Triton X-100; Dodecyl Maltoside (DDM); N-Dodecyl-β-d-maltopyranoside (DDM); Digitonin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS); Fos-Choline series.

3.What are the effects of high or low detergent concentration?
Too high a detergent concentration can denature the protein, while too low a concentration may result in incomplete solubilization.

4.Why do we need a long enough dissolution time?
Adequate time should be allowed for the detergent to interact with the membrane and solubilize the protein effectively. Extended incubation periods may be necessary for complete dissolution.

5.What are the components of buffer solution?
The buffer should provide optimal conditions for protein stability and solubilization. It typically consists of a combination of salts, pH regulators, and additives (e.g., reducing agents, stabilizers) tailored to the specific protein and experimental requirements.