View all key terms associated with recombinant proteins. Recombinant protein
A protein produced using recombinant DNA sequences acting as templates from which proteins are expressed in various expression systems via the processes of transcription and translation. When bioactivity has been confirmed they are also classed as being in a "native-like" state.
Native protein
A protein isolated from endogenous samples such as blood or animal tissue. They are in their folded and assembled form and haven’t been altered by heat, chemicals, enzyme reaction, or other denaturants.
Denatured protein
A protein that has lost its native folded structure. Denatured proteins are produced by altering the folding conditions, which can include increased temperature, altering buffer pH, or adding denaturants. Denatured proteins typically lose their biological function; however, the action of denaturation can be reversed in many cases.
Post-translational modifications (PTMs)
Modifications made to proteins after they have been synthesized, including phosphorylation, glycosylation, ubiquitination, nitrosylation, methylation, acetylation, lipidation, and proteolysis. Post-translational modifications can have many roles, including mediating proper protein folding or stability, directing a nascent protein to distinct cellular compartments, activating or inactivate catalytic activity, or otherwise influencing the biological activity of the protein.
Bioactivity
The response that a protein elicits within a biological system. The specific bioactivity of a protein is a measured using a functional assay and expressed as the ED50: the effective dose required to produce a biological response in 50% of a population. Not all proteins sold have bioactivity validated as it is not required for some applications.