Introduction

The Protein Expression and Proteomics (PEP) Core is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to supporting researchers in the study of proteins, their expression, modifications, interactions, and functions. Our core provides comprehensive services for protein expression, purification, characterization, and proteomic analysis, enabling scientific breakthroughs across multiple disciplines including biotechnology, medicine, and basic research.

Proteins are fundamental biomolecules that play crucial roles in virtually all biological processes. Understanding their structure, function, and interactions is essential for advancing our knowledge of cellular mechanisms and developing novel therapeutics. The PEP Core was established to address the growing need for specialized expertise and technologies in protein research, offering researchers access to cutting-edge methodologies that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive or technically challenging to establish in individual laboratories.

Core Services

Our PEP Core offers a comprehensive range of services designed to support every stage of protein research:

Protein Expression

Custom expression optimization in bacterial, yeast, insect, and mammalian systems including small-scale expression screening and large-scale production.

Protein Purification

Development of purification strategies using affinity chromatography, ion exchange, size exclusion, and other techniques for isolating pure proteins.

Protein Characterization

Quality assessment, activity assays, biophysical characterization, structural analysis, and determination of concentration and purity.

Proteomics Analysis

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for protein identification, quantification, post-translational modification analysis, and protein-protein interactions.

Custom Services

Tailored solutions for specific research needs including stable cell line generation, protein engineering, and specialty antibody production.

Consultation

Expert advice on experimental design, methodology selection, data interpretation, and troubleshooting protein research challenges.

Advanced Technologies

Mass Spectrometry

Our facility is equipped with high-resolution mass spectrometers including Orbitrap and Q-TOF instruments, enabling confident protein identification, precise quantification using label-free or isobaric tagging approaches, and sensitive detection of post-translational modifications.

Chromatography Systems

We maintain multiple FPLC and HPLC systems for both analytical and preparative protein purification. Our automated systems enable high-throughput purification workflows and reproducible results across scales from milligrams to grams of purified protein.

Expression Platforms

Our core supports a diverse range of expression systems including E. coli, yeast strains (Pichia, Saccharomyces), baculovirus-insect cell systems (Sf9, Hi5), and various mammalian expression platforms (HEK293, CHO). This versatility allows us to select the optimal expression system for each protein.

Biophysical Analysis

Our biophysical characterization capabilities include circular dichroism spectroscopy for secondary structure analysis, isothermal titration calorimetry for binding studies, differential scanning calorimetry for thermal stability assessment, and dynamic light scattering for aggregation analysis.

Research Applications

The services provided by the PEP Core support a wide range of research applications:

  • Biomarker Discovery: Identification of novel protein biomarkers for disease diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic response monitoring.
  • Drug Target Validation: Characterization of potential drug targets and evaluation of target engagement studies.
  • Antibody Development: Production of recombinant antigens for immunization and characterization of antibody specificity and affinity.
  • Structural Biology: Preparation of high-purity samples for X-ray crystallography, NMR, and cryo-EM structure determination.
  • Signaling Pathway Analysis: Elucidation of cell signaling networks through targeted proteomic approaches.
  • Protein-Protein Interactions: Mapping of interaction networks and characterization of binding interfaces.
  • Vaccine Development: Production of recombinant antigens and proteins for vaccine research.
  • Enzyme Characterization: Detailed analysis of enzyme kinetics, substrate specificity, and regulatory mechanisms.

How to Use Our Services

Accessing PEP Core services is straightforward. Our process includes:

  1. Initial Consultation: Contact our core to discuss your research questions and technical requirements. We'll help determine the best approach for your project.
  2. Project Proposal: Submit a brief project proposal outlining your proteins of interest, experimental goals, timeline requirements, and any potential challenges.
  3. Service Agreement: Review and sign a service agreement detailing the scope of work, timeline, costs, and deliverables.
  4. Sample Preparation: Our team will begin with small-scale expression screening if needed, followed by protocol optimization.
  5. Service Delivery: Receive purified proteins or analytical results, along with detailed methods and quality control data.
  6. Data Consultation: Our experts provide support for data interpretation and next steps for your research.

Frequently Asked Questions

What information do I need to provide to start a project?
For protein expression projects, please provide the gene sequence or accession number, desired expression level, any special requirements (tags, modifications), and if possible, published protocols or references. For proteomics projects, provide sample type, number of samples, specific research questions, and any budgetary limitations.
How long does a typical project take?
Timeline varies significantly based on project complexity. Simple protein expression and purification projects may require 4-8 weeks, while complex projects requiring optimization may take 3-6 months. Proteomics projects typically require 2-6 weeks from sample receipt to preliminary results, with full analysis potentially taking longer.
What are the costs for services?
Our services are provided on a fee-for-service basis. Rates depend on the specific services requested, scope of work, and required materials. We provide detailed quotations for each project after the initial consultation. Academic users typically receive subsidized rates compared to industry partners.
Can you work with rare or difficult-to-express proteins?
Yes, specialized techniques are available for challenging expression problems including membrane proteins, large complexes, proteins requiring specific modifications, or proteins toxic to expression hosts. We have experience with numerous difficult targets and can develop customized strategies.
Do you provide training for researchers to use equipment independently?
Yes, for select equipment and when project needs warrant it. We offer training programs for qualified researchers seeking independent access to specific instruments after demonstrating proficiency through supervised sessions. This option can be cost-effective for researchers with ongoing needs for particular technologies.