Downstream processing of recombinant proteins

Downstream processing of recombinant proteins

Along with high level of transgene expression to provide good yields in plant-based production system, efficient recovery of the recombinant proteins must also be optimized. The goal and the general steps for downstream processing are similar between plant and otherexpression systems. The goal is to recover the maximal amount of highly purified target protein with the minimal number of steps and at the lowest cost. The basic steps for downstream processes include tissue harvesting, protein extraction, purification, and formulation. Plants contain several undesired molecules (proteins, oils, phenolic compounds etc.) that must be removed during purification of the recombinant protein. The processing of plant tissue for the recovery of recombinant proteins generally includes fractionation of plant tissue, extraction of recombinant protein in aqueous medium and purification. Several strategies have been developed to improve the downstream processing of plant produced recombinant proteins.