9308837 Betenbaugh This project is on research to increase the expression of correctly folded (active) antibodies in insect cells. The expression of functional antibodies is accompanied by the formation of abnormal protein complexes and aggregates in which the polypeptide chains are bound together into incorrect associations. This research will attempt to reduce the aggregation reactions, in order to increase the yield of active antibodies, by increasing the intracellular levels of two catalytic proteins, immunoglobin binding protein (BiP), and protein disulfide isomerase (PDI). This will be accomplished by cloning genes for BiP and PDI into baculovirus. Also, kinetic models will be developed to determine rate-limiting steps and to optimize the assembly of active antibodies. ***
