Gene Expression Systems: Using Nature for the Art of Expression

Key Features
* Provides detailed information on expression systems
* Covers a variety of promoters and host organisms enabling researchers to tailor protocols to their specific needs
* Includes timelines and examples
* Compares pros and cons of each method

Audience: Molecular Biologists, Biochemists, Protein Chemists, and Biophysicists.

Recombinant gene expression is the fastest growing area in the study of molecular biology. By the time the Human Genome Project is completed (~2002), several thousand sequences will be known, but the purpose of the resultant expression products will remain a mystery. Gene discovery requires efficient expression systems for determining the structure and function of gene products. Gene Expression Systems covers a variety of promoters and host organisms that researchers can tailor to their specific needs.

Michael Cummings

Many researchers in the field of recombinant DNA research are adept at the manipulation of vectors and restriction enzymes, and can produce constructs that combine genetic elements from bacteria, yeast, and mammals in a dazzling array of combinations. Fewer researchers are experienced in the selection and use of a protein expression system. This book contains a comprehensive review of in vitro and in vivo gene expression systems. The reader is given the information needed to select and use the most appropriate gene expression system. Of particular value in each chapter are sections in which the advantages and disadvantages of each system are considered, as well as future directions. As a result, this book will be useful to a wide range of readers including academic researchers, industrial scientists seeking to use a protein expression system, and clinicians who wish to learn about gene therapy systems. The chapters are written by authorities in the field, many of whom are in the forefront of gene expression research. The book is divided into four sections. The first contains four chapters dealing with viral and prokaryotic expression systems, including T7 polymerase, Bacillus and E. coli. In the second section eukaryotic systems are covered, including Pichia and mammalian cells. Section III contains two chapters on the use of insect systems and baculovirus vectors. The last section deals with expression in transgenic mice and the milk of transgenic animals. The advantages and disadvantages of each system are evaluated, and potential problems are addressed, with suggestions for solutions. An opening section of the book contains a table that will allow aresearcher to select the systems or system most appropriate for his or her requirements. The chapters cover transient expression systems, inducible systems, stable expression, and large-scale production of a gene product. The authors recognize that expression of cloned genes is a combination of art and science, and the actual and potential pitfalls are acknowledged and discussed. This is the most comprehensive and clearly written book available on gene expression systems, and belongs on the shelf of everyone interested in protein expression.

Joseph Fernandez is the Vice President of Business Development at Invitrogen Corporation in Carlsbad, California, where he identifies and licenses new technologies including gene expression systems.

Jim Hoeffler is the Director of Research and Development at Invitrogen Corporation, concentrating on the development of new products, with a focus on gene expression systems.