Recombinant Protein Expression Systems

In the field of healthcare biotechnology, recombinant proteins can be produced in various cell types—known as expression systems—which may be prokaryotic or eukaryotic. This is a mature and attractive technological field with strong employment prospects. Indeed, the bioproduction of biopharmaceuticals (proteins, monoclonal antibodies) represents a major challenge in human therapeutics. Before designing any biologic drug that involves a bioproduction step, it is essential to understand the various eukaryotic and prokaryotic expression systems used in biotechnology. 

This course unit includes interactive lectures, presentations by professionals, and hands-on exercises during which students will apply the knowledge gained in class: cell culture, monitoring of the production clone, recombinant protein production in a eukaryotic system, and production monitoring. 

Competencies targeted by the EU: 

- Understand the expression systems used in industry: applications and advantages, the main strains used, methods for obtaining producer clones, and limitations 

-Practical skills: 

-Prepare and maintain a eukaryotic cell culture on a laboratory scale (adherent and suspension cells, preparation of a cell bank, preparation of culture media) 

-Characterization of the producing clone (viability, sterility, stability) 

Cellular and Molecular Biology, Microbiology 

Comprehensive ongoing assessment of the theoretical portion 

Continuous, comprehensive assessment of the practical component, including the writing of a lab report.