Sample interview questions: Have you used different expression systems like E. coli, yeast, or mammalian cells?
Sample answer:
- E. coli:
This is a prokaryotic expression system that is commonly used for expressing recombinant proteins. It is easy to grow and maintain, and it can be engineered to produce high levels of protein. However, E. coli is not able to perform post-translational modifications, such as glycosylation, which may be necessary for the proper function of some proteins.
- Yeast:
This is a eukaryotic expression system that is used for expressing proteins that require post-translational modifications. Yeast is more complex than E. coli, but it is still relatively easy to grow and maintain.
- Mammalian cells:
This is a eukaryotic expression system that is used for expressing proteins that are difficult to express in other systems. Mammalian cells are the most complex and expensive to grow and maintain, but they can produce proteins with the correct post-translational modifications.
Advantages of using different expression systems:
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By using different expression systems, you can take advantage of the unique features of each system to produce proteins that are properly folded, modified, and functional. Read full answer