0735385 (Chasin) One aim of this research is to shorten the gene amplification process in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells by identifying a particular chromosomal location that exhibits a high rate of amplification. This location will then be engineered to accept any transfected gene. In parallel, an even more rapid method will be developed that results in instant amplification. An additional aim of this research is to create novel plasmid vectors into which any gene can be introduced, and which specify RNA sequences that confer: 1) an optimized stability of the mRNA; 2) an optimized ability to initiate translation into protein; and 3) an optimized rate of secretion of the product from the cell. The board impact of research will be on the upstream processing steps in the manufacture of therapeutic mAbs in cultured mammalian cells. In the course of this work, a graduate student will be mentored for entry into the biotechnology industry
