ALiCE® Expressed Proteins

ALiCE® (Almost Living Cell-Free Expression) is an eukaryotic protein expression platform able to produce proteins at scale. The system combines advantages of Nicotiana. Tabacum as plant expression system with the rapid expression of CFPE. ALiCE® has a high protein yield averaging about 2 grams per liter within a very short time frame of 48 hours. For industrial purposes the yield can be upscaled up to 10 liter. Addtionally, ALiCE® is able to attach eukaryotic PTMs like complex glycolisation patterns to the proteins.

ALiCE® Protein Expression - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently asked questions about our ALiCE® proteins.

1. What is ALiCE® protein expression, and how does it work?

   ALiCE® (Almost Living Cell-Free Expression) is a cell-free protein expression approach utilizing the cell machinery of Tobacco (Nicotiana benthamiana) to express high-quality recombinant proteins.

2. What are the advantages of using ALiCE® as protein expression system?

   The eukaryotic plant-based cell-free system offers high yields in protein expression, rapid production times, and the ability to express complex or toxic proteins. In comparison to traditional cell-based expression systems ALiCE® provides a cost-effective alternative with high scalability.

3. Can I express specific protein or fragments using this service?

   Yes, our service allows for the expression of protein fragments or domains, providing flexibility in designing experiments or obtaining specific protein regions of interest. If the sequence is known, we can discuss your project.

4. Can ALiCE® carry out complex eukaryotic PTMs?

   ALiCE® lysate can produce all classes of protein, including those that are typically difficult to express. Because the lysate contains native microsomes derived from the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi, it is able to introduce complex eukaryotic post-translational modifications including N-glycosylation and disulfide bonds.

5. Which protein quantities are available?

   The standard quantities we offer 0,5 mg and 1 mg for the initial production. Depending on the demands of your project we scale production to accommodate your needs.

6. What quality control measures are in place to ensure the integrity of the expressed protein?

   We employ rigorous quality control measures to ensure that the expressed protein meets your specifications and requirements. This includes SDS-PAGE and Western blot for verification and size exclusion chromatography (SEC) for the removal of aggregates with subsequent purity assessment and protein integrity testing.

7. Is the activity of the protein guaranteed?

   Previous customers have provided feedback that their proteins showed active properties. However, we do not test the activity in our laboratory and therefore do not guarantee the activity.

8. What is the turnaround time for protein expression, and does it vary based on the quantity?

   The turnaround time for protein expression is roughly two months, regardless of the quantity ordered. Additional quantities can be shipped within two weeks after successful production. This ensures rapid delivery of your protein of interest for timely research or application needs.

9. What happens if the protein expression is not successful?

   There is no financial obligation in case the protein cannot be expressed or purified.

10. Are protein tags customizable, and which tag do you recommend?

    Yes, protein tags are customizable, and we recommend the strep-tag for optimal purity and yield. This tag facilitates efficient protein purification while minimizing non-specific interactions. If you already have worked with a certain tag we are happy to consider your feedback.

11. Can the protein be provided without tag?

    Yes, specific protein tags can be cleaved upon request, allowing to produce tag-free proteins for downstream applications. Please contact us for options.

12. Is biotinylation of the expressed protein possible?

    Yes, biotinylation of the expressed protein is possible, enabling further functionalization or conjugation for specific applications. Please inquire when this is a requirement.

13. How is the purified protein shipped, and what is the storage recommendation?

    The expressed protein is shipped on dry ice to maintain stability during transit. Upon receipt, it should be stored at -80°C according to the the shipment instructions.

Discover high-quality recombinant proteins expressed with ALiCE® down below!