The Role of Secretion Signals in Protein Expression
Secretion signals play a fundamental role in directing proteins through the secretory pathway. The conventional α-MF signal enables post-translational translocation; however, alternative secretion signals can leverage co-translational translocation, offering advantages for many target proteins. In collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, VALIDOGEN’s researchers have identified novel secretion signals, demonstrating superior performance over the α-MF signal and other commonly used signals for various proteins.
What’s New - and Why It Matters
- More Options, Better Outcome: A broadened selection of secretion signals means increased flexibility to match signal type with target protein characteristics.
- Beyond α-MF: Alternatives to the α-MF signal can address co-translational translocation and protein-specific demands.
- Hybrid Signals: Combinations of (putative) co-translational signals with moieties of other secretion signals have shown superior secretion yields.
Optimized Secretion - Backed by Data
- Higher Yields Achieved: Proprietary signals routinely surpass α-MF performance in diverse expression contexts.
- Tailored to Task: VALIDOGEN’s expanded secretion signal toolbox and systematic screening approach enable fast and reliable identification of the optimal secretion signal for each target protein, accelerating development and maximizing yields.
- Process Integration: Optimum secretion signals are identified for different production strategies and strain backgrounds.
Rapid Assessment for Optimal Secretion
VALIDOGEN’s Expression Feasibility Studies offer a data-driven foundation for selecting the optimal secretion strategy in Pichia. Beyond evaluating proprietary secretion signals, these studies systematically assess critical genetic elements - including promoter variants, strain backgrounds, helper factors, and production strategies. The resulting data support informed early-stage decisions and enable the development of high-performance Pichia strains in a comprehensive strain development program by fully applying VALIDOGEN’s UNLOCK PICHIA® toolbox.
VALIDOGEN’s UNLOCK PICHIA® toolbox offers a unique approach to overcoming secretion bottlenecks in Pichia pastoris. By leveraging novel secretion signals and hybrid strategies, we enable highly efficient protein production across biopharma, food, diagnostics, and industrial applications. To explore the potential of your protein of interest, reach out to our team and discover how we can help you optimize your protein expression goals.
Please contact us if you are interested to learn more about VALIDOGEN's strain development programs or any other services directly by speaking to our team.
Iskandar Dib, Principal Scientist & BD Manager, iskandar.dib@validogen.com
Rosie Maddock, BD Manager, rosie.maddock@validogen.com