“GeneDecoder” for highly parallel protein production

## Biotechnology

## Life Sciences

# Cell-free protein synthesis technology toward a gene dictionary

Keyword: In vitro protein synthesis technology, Functional and structural characterization of gene products, Drug discovery

Organizations Involved

○ Yaeta Endo, Professor, Cell-Free Science and Technology Research Center, Ehime Unive

○ Satoshi Ozawa, Director, Cell-Free Science, Co., Ltd.

Prof. Endo

Leading Venture Plaza, Yokohama, where the headquarter is (left), and JETRO Business Innovation Center, CA, USA (right)

## 【Abstract】

Ehime University has established a practical technology for synthesizing proteins encoded in DNA molecules. This lead to the foundation of the Cell-Free Sciences corporate (CFS) in Yokohama and in US, which produces proteins by commissioning and sells protein synthesis reagents and automated protein synthesis machines to world-wide customers.

## Project Background

Needs for the technology at the dawn of the post-genomic era and the socioeconomic needs for reactivation of local communities and local universities urged us to found the company.

## 【Summary of the technology transfer】Technological Impact

## Protein synthesis robots

• Instability of the existing cell-free protein synthesis methods was eliminated through identification of the mechanism triggered on disruption of the cells to kill the protein synthesis apparatus, and through the development of the method for inactivating it.

• A highly active, stable protein synthesizing extract was prepared from wheat embryos.

•The following new technologies were developed for the practical use:

1) RNA sequences that enhance protein synthesis,

2) a modified PCR method for rapid preparation of the mRNA template,

3) highly-parallel / large-scale options for production procedure, and

4) automated protein synthesis robot.

## Market Impact

• The high performance of the technology has been appreciated in the field. A number of institutions, universities, and companies are using the technology for the analyses of structures and functions of proteins, and the number is still growing.

## Funding History

The Special Coordination Funds for Promoting Science and Technology by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Japan (2002-2005)

## I ntellectual property protection

The number of Patents :

Total 8 (IN JAPAN 6, International 2)

“Preparation of the extract”

Pat. No. 3255784

The number of Patent Applications : Total 81 (IN JAPAN 53, International 28)

The “Protemist-DT2” table-top robot for protein synthesis and purification in mg quantities

## ●Special Features of the Collaboration

•Supports from the specialists was essential for the foundation of the company. Collaboration with the local governments and local companies promoted the technology transfer. The CFS corporate is now contributing to the increase in local employment opportunities.

## Turning point in the Project

Excellent and experienced persons for foundation of the company

Close collaboration based on local confidential relationships

Strategic advertisement to world-wide and domestic customers

For more information, contact : Norio Inoue, Institution for Collaborative Relations, Ehime University, +81-89-927-9021, norio@stu.ehime-u.ac.jp