Question

Discuss the development of a novel protein.

Hint:

Remember the different stages of vaccine development, and the various strategies employed by protein engineering techniques.

Answer 1

(i) Development of a novel protein: Recombinant vaccine based on selected epitope: To develop a novel protein using recombinant DNA technology, it is first necessary to select an epitope, which is a specific portion of a protein of a virus that can create an immune response. A synthetic gene for the selected epitope is assembled, and introduced into a host cell, like bacteria or yeast. These host cells are grown on a large scale. Then the epitope protein is isolated and purified for use as a recombinant vaccine, or as a subunit vaccine. 

(ii) Properties that can be manipulated using Protein Engineering: Using Protein Engineering techniques, various properties of proteins can be modified, and some of these include: Thermal stability: The protein can be modified to make it stable at higher temperatures. pH stability: The protein can be modified to make it stable in a wider range of pH. Solvent tolerance: This allows the protein to function effectively in the presence of various solvents. Solubility: It is possible to manipulate the solubility of the protein. Catalytic Potency: This enables one to enhance the catalytic activity of a protein. Biological adaptation to environmental stresses: Using protein engineering, proteins can be manipulated to increase their tolerance to various stresses, such as high salinity, drought, and extreme temperatures.