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Wu R, Kahl DM, Kloberdanz R, Rohilla KJ, Balasubramanian S. Demonstration of a robust high cell density transient CHO platform yielding mAb titers of up to 2 g/L without medium exchange. Biotechnol Prog 2024; 40:e3435. [PMID: 38329375 DOI: 10.1002/btpr.3435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Biopharmaceuticals like therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and other derived proteins are popular for treating various diseases. Transient gene expression (TGE) is typically used as a fast yet efficient method to generate moderate amounts of material. It has been used to support early stage research and discovery processes. Introduction of a robust high yielding and predictive TGE platform in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) is crucial. It maintains the consistency in cell lines and processes throughout the early drug discovery and downstream manufacturing processes. This helps researchers to identify the issues at an early stage for timely resolution. In this study, we have demonstrated a simple high-titer platform for TGE in CHO based on a dilution process of seeding cells. We achieved titers ranging from 0.8 to 1.9 g/L for eight model mAbs at three scales (1, 30, 100 mL) in 10 days using our new platform. The ability to seed by dilution significantly streamlined the process and dramatically enhanced platform throughput. We observed a modest reduction in titer ranging from 11% to 28% when cells were seeded using dilution compared to when cells were seeded using medium exchange. Further studies revealed that carry over of spent medium into transfection negatively affected the DNA uptake and transcription processes, while the translation and secretion was minimally impacted. In summary, our transient CHO platform using cells prepared by dilution at high densities can achieve high titers of up to 1.9 g/L, which can be further improved by targeting the bottlenecks of transfection and transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rigumula Wu
- Department of Cell Culture and Bioprocess Operations, Genentech, Inc, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Danielle M Kahl
- Department of Cell Culture and Bioprocess Operations, Genentech, Inc, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ronald Kloberdanz
- Department of Cell Culture and Bioprocess Operations, Genentech, Inc, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Kushal J Rohilla
- Department of Cell Culture and Bioprocess Operations, Genentech, Inc, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sowmya Balasubramanian
- Department of Cell Culture and Bioprocess Operations, Genentech, Inc, San Francisco, California, USA
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2
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Cui ZM, Feng YY, Gao YP, Wang HT, Lu JT, Guo JL, Xu HY, Qiu LL, Wang TY, Jia YL. Overexpression of YTHDF3 increases the specific productivity of the recombinant protein in CHO cells by promoting the translation process. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2400078. [PMID: 38651251 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202400078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Due to their high-quality characteristics, Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells have become the most widely used and reliable host cells for the production of recombinant therapeutic proteins in the biomedical field. Previous studies have shown that the m6A reader YTHDF3, which contains the YTH domain, can affect a variety of biological processes by regulating the translation and stability of target mRNAs. This study investigates the effect of YTHDF3 on transgenic CHO cells. The results indicate that stable overexpression of YTHDF3 significantly enhances recombinant protein expression without affecting host cell growth. Transcriptome sequencing indicated that several genes, including translation initiation factor, translation extension factor, and ribosome assembly factor, were upregulated in CHO cells overexpressing YTHDF3. In addition, cycloheximide experiments confirmed that YTHDF3 enhanced transgene expression by promoting translation in CHO cells. In conclusion, the findings in this study provide a novel approach for mammalian cell engineering to increase protein productivity by regulating m6A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Ming Cui
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Ying-Ying Feng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Yan-Ping Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Hai-Tong Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Jiang-Tao Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jia-Liang Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Hong-Yan Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Le-le Qiu
- School of Basic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Tian-Yun Wang
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Yan-Long Jia
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
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3
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Liu HN, Wang XY, Zou Y, Wu WB, Lin Y, Ji BY, Wang TY. Synthetic enhancers including TFREs improve transgene expression in CHO cells. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26901. [PMID: 38468921 PMCID: PMC10926067 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The human cytomegalovirus major immediate early gene (CMV) promoter is currently the most preferred promoter for recombinant therapeutic proteins (RTPs) production in CHO cells. To enhance the production of RTPs, five synthetic enhancers including multiple transcription factor regulatory elements (TFREs) were evaluated to enhance recombinant protein level in transient and stably transfected CHO cells. Compared with the control, four elements can enhance the report genes expression under both two transfected states. Further, the function of these four enhancers on human serum albumin (HSA) were investigated. We found that the transient expression can increase by up to 1.5 times, and the stably expression can maximum increase by up to 2.14 times. The enhancement of transgene expression was caused by the boost of their corresponding mRNA levels. Transcriptomics analysis was performed and found that transcriptional activation and cell cycle regulation genes were involved. In conclusion, optimization of enhancers in the CMV promoter could increase the production yield of transgene in transfected CHO cells, which has significance for developing high-yield CHO cell expression system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Ning Liu
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
- SanQuan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Xiao-Yin Wang
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Ying Zou
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Wen-Bao Wu
- Shanghai Immunocan Biotech Co., LTD, Shanghai 200000, China
| | - Yan Lin
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Bo-Yu Ji
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Tian-Yun Wang
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
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Cheng J, Zhang Y, Tian Y, Cao L, Liu X, Miao S, Zhao L, Ye Q, Zhou Y, Tan WS. Development of a novel tyrosine-based selection system for generation of recombinant Chinese hamster ovary cells. J Biosci Bioeng 2024; 137:221-229. [PMID: 38220502 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2023.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Efficiently expanding Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, which serve as the primary host cells for recombinant protein production, have gained increasing industrial significance. A significant hurdle in stable cell line development is the low efficiency of the target gene integrated into the host genome, implying the necessity for an effective screening and selection procedure to separate these stable cells. In this study, the genes of phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) and pterin 4 alpha carbinolamine dehydratase 1 (PCBD1), which are key enzymes in the tyrosine synthesis pathway, were utilized as selection markers and transduced into host cells together with the target genes. This research investigated the enrichment effect of this system and advanced further in understanding its benefits for cell line development and rCHO cell culture. A novel tyrosine-based selection system that only used PCBD1 as a selection marker was designed to promote the enrichment effect. Post 9 days of starvation, positive transductants in the cell pool approached 100%. Applied the novel tyrosine-based selection system, rCHO cells expressing E2 protein were generated and named CHO TS cells. It could continue to grow, and the yield of E2 achieved 95.95 mg/L in a tyrosine-free and chemically-defined (CD) medium. Herein, we introduced an alternative to antibiotic-based selections for the establishment of CHO cell lines and provided useful insights for the design and development of CD medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yanmin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yuan Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Lei Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Xuping Liu
- Shanghai BioEngine Sci-Tech Co., Ltd, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Shiwei Miao
- Hangzhou Sumgen Biotech Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310051, China
| | - Liang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Qian Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China.
| | - Yan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Wen-Song Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
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Geng SL, Zhao XJ, Zhang X, Zhang JH, Mi CL, Wang TY. Recombinant therapeutic proteins degradation and overcoming strategies in CHO cells. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:182. [PMID: 38285115 PMCID: PMC10824870 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-024-13008-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Mammalian cell lines are frequently used as the preferred host cells for producing recombinant therapeutic proteins (RTPs) having post-translational modified modification similar to those observed in proteins produced by human cells. Nowadays, most RTPs approved for marketing are produced in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Recombinant therapeutic antibodies are among the most important and promising RTPs for biomedical applications. One of the issues that occurs during development of RTPs is their degradation, which caused by a variety of factors and reducing quality of RTPs. RTP degradation is especially concerning as they could result in reduced biological functions (antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and complement-dependent cytotoxicity) and generate potentially immunogenic species. Therefore, the mechanisms underlying RTP degradation and strategies for avoiding degradation have regained an interest from academia and industry. In this review, we outline recent progress in this field, with a focus on factors that cause degradation during RTP production and the development of strategies for overcoming RTP degradation. KEY POINTS: • The recombinant therapeutic protein degradation in CHO cell systems is reviewed. • Enzymatic factors and non-enzymatic methods influence recombinant therapeutic protein degradation. • Reducing the degradation can improve the quality of recombinant therapeutic proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Lei Geng
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Xiao-Jie Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Ji-Hong Zhang
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Chun-Liu Mi
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Tian-Yun Wang
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China.
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China.
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China.
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Kieu Doan TN, Croyle MA. Physical characteristics and stability profile of recombinant plasmid DNA within a film matrix. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2023; 190:270-283. [PMID: 37567395 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Plasmids are essential source material for production of biological drugs, vaccines and vectors for gene therapy. They are commonly formulated as frozen solutions. Considering the cost associated with maintenance of cold chain conditions during storage and transport, there is a significant need for alternative methods for stabilization of plasmids at ambient temperature. The objective of these studies was to identify a film-based formulation that preserved transfection efficiency of plasmids at 25 °C. A model plasmid, pAAVlacZ, was used for these studies. Transfection efficiency and agarose gel electrophoresis were utilized to assess bioactivity and changes in physical conformation of plasmid during storage. An amino acid, capable of sustaining a positive charge while supporting an alkaline environment within the film matrix, preserved transfection efficiency for 9 months at 25 °C. Addition of sugar and a plasticizer to the formulation preserved the plasmid in an amorphous state and improved handling properties of the film. The manner in which excipients were incorporated into bulk formulations and environmental humidity in which films were stored significantly impacted transfection efficiency of plasmid in the rehydrated solution. Taken together, these results suggest that plasmids can be stored for extended periods of time without refrigeration within a film matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trang Nguyen Kieu Doan
- The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Maria A Croyle
- The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, Austin, TX 78712, United States; John R. LaMontagne Center for Infectious Disease, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
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Wang Y, Zhang K, Zhao Y, Li Y, Su W, Li S. Construction and Applications of Mammalian Cell-Based DNA-Encoded Peptide/Protein Libraries. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:1874-1888. [PMID: 37315219 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
DNA-encoded peptide/protein libraries are the starting point for protein evolutionary modification and functional peptide/antibody selection. Different display technologies, protein directed evolution, and deep mutational scanning (DMS) experiments employ DNA-encoded libraries to provide sequence variations for downstream affinity- or function-based selections. Mammalian cells promise the inherent post-translational modification and near-to-natural conformation of exogenously expressed mammalian proteins and thus are the best platform for studying transmembrane proteins or human disease-related proteins. However, due to the current technical bottlenecks of constructing mammalian cell-based large size DNA-encoded libraries, the advantages of mammalian cells as screening platforms have not been fully exploited. In this review, we summarize the current efforts in constructing DNA-encoded libraries in mammalian cells and the existing applications of these libraries in different fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Department of Breast Cancer Pathology and Research Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Kaili Zhang
- Department of Breast Cancer Pathology and Research Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Yanjie Zhao
- Department of Breast Cancer Pathology and Research Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Yifan Li
- Department of Breast Cancer Pathology and Research Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Weijun Su
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Shuai Li
- Department of Breast Cancer Pathology and Research Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
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8
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Green EA, Hamaker NK, Lee KH. Comparison of vector elements and process conditions in transient and stable suspension HEK293 platforms using SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain as a model protein. BMC Biotechnol 2023; 23:7. [PMID: 36882740 PMCID: PMC9990576 DOI: 10.1186/s12896-023-00777-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mammalian cell lines are frequently used as protein expression hosts because of their ability to correctly fold and assemble complex proteins, produce them at high titers, and confer post-translational modifications (PTMs) critical to proper function. Increasing demand for proteins with human-like PTMs, particularly viral proteins and vectors, have made human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells an increasingly popular host. The need to engineer more productive HEK293 platforms and the ongoing nature of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic presented an opportunity to study strategies to improve viral protein expression in transient and stable HEK293 platforms. RESULTS Initial process development was done at 24 deep well plate (DWP) -scale to screen transient processes and stable clonal cell lines for recombinant SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain (rRBD) titer. Nine DNA vectors that drove rRBD production under different promoters and optionally contained Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) elements to promote episomal expression were screened for transient rRBD production at 37 °C or 32 °C. Use of the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter to drive expression at 32 °C led to the highest transient protein titers, but inclusion of episomal expression elements did not augment titer. In parallel, four clonal cell lines with titers higher than that of the selected stable pool were identified in a batch screen. Flask-scale transient transfection and stable fed-batch processes were then established that produced rRBD up to 100 mg/L and 140 mg/L, respectively. While a bio-layer interferometry (BLI) assay was crucial for efficiently screening DWP batch titers, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to compare titers from the flask-scale batches due to varying matrix effects from different cell culture media compositions. CONCLUSION Comparing yields from the flask-scale batches revealed that stable fed-batch cultures produced up to 2.1x more rRBD than transient processes. The stable cell lines developed in this work are the first reported clonal, HEK293-derived rRBD producers and have titers up to 140 mg/L. As stable production platforms are more economically favorable for long-term protein production at large scales, investigation of strategies to increase the efficiency of high-titer stable cell line generation in Expi293F or other HEK293 hosts is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica A Green
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 590 Avenue 1743, Newark, Delaware, 19713, USA
| | - Nathaniel K Hamaker
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 590 Avenue 1743, Newark, Delaware, 19713, USA
| | - Kelvin H Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 590 Avenue 1743, Newark, Delaware, 19713, USA.
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Chen C, Wang Z, Sun Z, Li W, Dimitrov DS. Development of an efficient method for selection of stable cell pools for protein expression and surface display with Expi293F cells. Cell Biochem Funct 2023; 41:355-364. [PMID: 36864545 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Compare with transient expression, stable cell lines generally have higher productivity and better quality for protein expression. However, selection of stable cell line is time-consuming and laborious. Here we describe an optimized selection method to achieve high-efficient stable cell pools with Expi293F suspension cells. This method only takes 2-3 weeks to generate stable cell pools with 2- to 10-fold higher productivity than transient gene expression (TGE). In fed-batch culture with Yeastolate, >1 g/L yield was achieved with our KTN0239-IgG stable cell pool in shaker flasks. This method can be also applied to efficiently display proteins on the cell surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Chen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Center for Antibody Therapeutics, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Zening Wang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Zehua Sun
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Center for Antibody Therapeutics, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Abound Bio, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Wei Li
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Center for Antibody Therapeutics, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Dimiter S Dimitrov
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Center for Antibody Therapeutics, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Abound Bio, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Zhu Y, Saribas AS, Liu J, Lin Y, Bodnar B, Zhao R, Guo Q, Ting J, Wei Z, Ellis A, Li F, Wang X, Yang X, Wang H, Ho WZ, Yang L, Hu W. Protein expression/secretion boost by a novel unique 21-mer cis-regulatory motif (Exin21) via mRNA stabilization. Mol Ther 2023; 31:1136-1158. [PMID: 36793212 PMCID: PMC9927791 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Boosting protein production is invaluable in both industrial and academic applications. We discovered a novel expression-increasing 21-mer cis-regulatory motif (Exin21) that inserts between SARS-CoV-2 envelope (E) protein-encoding sequence and luciferase reporter gene. This unique Exin21 (CAACCGCGGTTCGCGGCCGCT), encoding a heptapeptide (QPRFAAA, designated as Qα), significantly (34-fold on average) boosted E production. Both synonymous and nonsynonymous mutations within Exin21 diminished its boosting capability, indicating the exclusive composition and order of 21 nucleotides. Further investigations demonstrated that Exin21/Qα addition could boost the production of multiple SARS-CoV-2 structural proteins (S, M, and N) and accessory proteins (NSP2, NSP16, and ORF3), and host cellular gene products such as IL-2, IFN-γ, ACE2, and NIBP. Exin21/Qα enhanced the packaging yield of S-containing pseudoviruses and standard lentivirus. Exin21/Qα addition on the heavy and light chains of human anti-SARS-CoV monoclonal antibody robustly increased antibody production. The extent of such boosting varied with protein types, cellular density/function, transfection efficiency, reporter dosage, secretion signaling, and 2A-mediated auto-cleaving efficiency. Mechanistically, Exin21/Qα increased mRNA synthesis/stability, and facilitated protein expression and secretion. These findings indicate that Exin21/Qα has the potential to be used as a universal booster for protein production, which is of importance for biomedicine research and development of bioproducts, drugs, and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjun Zhu
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - A. Sami Saribas
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Jinbiao Liu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Yuan Lin
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Brittany Bodnar
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Ruotong Zhao
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Qian Guo
- Department of Medical Genetics & Molecular Biochemistry, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Julia Ting
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Zhengyu Wei
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Aidan Ellis
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Fang Li
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Hong Wang
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Wen-Zhe Ho
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Ling Yang
- Department of Medical Genetics & Molecular Biochemistry, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Wenhui Hu
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA.
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11
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Yang Y, Li Z, Li Q, Ma K, Lin Y, Feng H, Wang T. Increase recombinant antibody yields through optimizing vector design and production process in CHO cells. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:4963-4975. [PMID: 35788878 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-12051-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells are the most commonly used host cells for the production of recombinant monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) due to their several advantages. Although the yields of recombinant mAbs can be greatly increased by some strategies, such as medium formulation, culture conditions, and cell engineering, most studies focused on either upstream design or downstream processes. In the present study, we first expressed recombinant adalimumab through combination of the vector design and production process optimization in CHO cells. Bicistronic vector, monocistronic vector, and dual promoter vector were constructed, and the production process was optimized using low-temperature and fed-batch culture. The results showed that the dual promoter vector exhibited the highest yield under the transient and stable transfected cells among three different vector systems in CHO cells. In addition, low-temperature and fed-batch culture could further improve the yields of adalimumab. The purified antibody displayed tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) binding activity. In conclusion, combination of expression vector design and production process optimization can achieve higher expression of recombinant mAbs in CHO cells. KEY POINTS: • The dual promoter vector is more effective for expressing recombinant antibodies. • The yields of antibodies are related to the LC chain expression level. • Low-temperature and feed addition can promote antibody production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongxiao Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Henan International Joint Laboratory of Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Zhengmei Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Henan International Joint Laboratory of Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Qin Li
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Kai Ma
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Yan Lin
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Huigen Feng
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.
| | - Tianyun Wang
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China.
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12
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Xu T, Zhang J, Wang T, Wang X. Recombinant antibodies aggregation and overcoming strategies in CHO cells. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:3913-3922. [PMID: 35608667 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-11977-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian cell lines are frequently used as the preferred host cells for producing recombinant therapeutic proteins (RTPs) having post-translational modified modifications similar to those observed in proteins produced by human cells. Nowadays, most RTPs approved for marketing are produced in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Recombinant therapeutic antibodies (RTAs) are among the most important and promising RTPs for biomedical applications. A major limitation associated with the use of RTAs is their aggregation, which can be caused by a variety of factors; this results in a reduction of quality. RTA aggregations are especially concerning as they can trigger human immune responses in humans and may be fatal. Therefore, the mechanisms underlying RTA aggregation and measures for avoiding aggregation are interesting topics in RTAs research. In this review, we discuss recent progress in the field of RTAs aggregation, with a focus on factors that cause aggregation during RTA production and the development of strategies for overcoming RTA aggregation. KEY POINTS: • The recombinant antibody aggregation in mammalian cell systems is reviewed. • Intracellular environment and extracellular parameters influence recombinant antibody aggregation. • Reducing the aggregations can improve the quality of recombinant antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Xu
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China.,The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453002, Henan, China
| | - Jihong Zhang
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China.,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Tianyun Wang
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China. .,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China.
| | - Xiaoyin Wang
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China. .,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China.
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13
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Wei M, Mi CL, Jing CQ, Wang TY. Progress of Transposon Vector System for Production of Recombinant Therapeutic Proteins in Mammalian Cells. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:879222. [PMID: 35600890 PMCID: PMC9114503 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.879222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, mammalian cells have become the primary host cells for the production of recombinant therapeutic proteins (RTPs). Despite that the expression of RTPs in mammalian cells can be improved by directly optimizing or engineering the expression vectors, it is still influenced by the low stability and efficiency of gene integration. Transposons are mobile genetic elements that can be inserted and cleaved within the genome and can change their inserting position. The transposon vector system can be applied to establish a stable pool of cells with high efficiency in RTPs production through facilitating the integration of gene of interest into transcriptionally active sites under screening pressure. Here, the structure and optimization of transposon vector system and its application in expressing RTPs at high level in mammalian cells are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mian Wei
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang, China
| | - Chun-Liu Mi
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang, China
| | - Chang-Qin Jing
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- *Correspondence: Chang-Qin Jing, ; Tian-Yun Wang,
| | - Tian-Yun Wang
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang, China
- *Correspondence: Chang-Qin Jing, ; Tian-Yun Wang,
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14
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Zagoskin AA, Zakharova MV, Nagornykh MO. Structural Elements of DNA and RNA Eukaryotic Expression Vectors for In Vitro and In Vivo Genome Editor Delivery. Mol Biol 2022; 56:950-962. [PMCID: PMC9735121 DOI: 10.1134/s0026893322060218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Gene editing with programmable nucleases opens new perspectives in important practice areas, such as healthcare and agriculture. The most challenging problem for the safe and effective therapeutic use of gene editing technologies is the proper delivery and expression of gene editors in cells and tissues of different organisms. Virus-based and nonviral systems can be used for the successful delivery of gene editors. Here we have reviewed structural elements of nonviral DNA- and RNA-based expression vectors for gene editing and delivery methods in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. A. Zagoskin
- Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences, 142290 Pushchino, Russia
| | - M. V. Zakharova
- Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences, 142290 Pushchino, Russia
| | - M. O. Nagornykh
- Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences, 142290 Pushchino, Russia ,Sirius University of Science and Technology, Sirius, 354349 Sochi, Russia
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15
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Li ES, Saha MS. Optimizing Calcium Detection Methods in Animal Systems: A Sandbox for Synthetic Biology. Biomolecules 2021; 11:343. [PMID: 33668387 PMCID: PMC7996158 DOI: 10.3390/biom11030343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the 1970s, the emergence and expansion of novel methods for calcium ion (Ca2+) detection have found diverse applications in vitro and in vivo across a series of model animal systems. Matched with advances in fluorescence imaging techniques, the improvements in the functional range and stability of various calcium indicators have significantly enhanced more accurate study of intracellular Ca2+ dynamics and its effects on cell signaling, growth, differentiation, and regulation. Nonetheless, the current limitations broadly presented by organic calcium dyes, genetically encoded calcium indicators, and calcium-responsive nanoparticles suggest a potential path toward more rapid optimization by taking advantage of a synthetic biology approach. This engineering-oriented discipline applies principles of modularity and standardization to redesign and interrogate endogenous biological systems. This review will elucidate how novel synthetic biology technologies constructed for eukaryotic systems can offer a promising toolkit for interfacing with calcium signaling and overcoming barriers in order to accelerate the process of Ca2+ detection optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Margaret S. Saha
- Department of Biology, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA;
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16
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Guo X, Wang C, Wang TY. Chromatin-modifying elements for recombinant protein production in mammalian cell systems. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2020; 40:1035-1043. [PMID: 32777953 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2020.1805401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian cells are the preferred choice system for the production of complex molecules, such as recombinant therapeutic proteins. Although the technology for increasing the yield of proteins has improved rapidly, the process of selecting, identifying as well as maintaining high-yield cell clones is still troublesome, time-consuming and usually uncertain. Optimization of expression vectors is one of the most effective methods for enhancing protein expression levels. Several commonly used chromatin-modifying elements, including the matrix attachment region, ubiquitous chromatin opening elements, insulators, stabilizing anti-repressor elements can be used to increase the expression level and stability of recombinant proteins. In this review, these chromatin-modifying elements used for the expression vector optimization in mammalian cells are summarized, and future strategies for the utilization of expression cassettes are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Guo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Perildicals Publishing House, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Chong Wang
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Tian-Yun Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Perildicals Publishing House, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
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