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Membrane proteins are essential biomolecules embedded within cellular and organelle membranes, responsible for critical functions such as material transport, signal transduction, cell recognition, and enzymatic activity. Approximately 30% of human genes encode membrane proteins, with over 60% identified as potential therapeutic targets. However, the inherent hydrophobicity, structural complexity, and low expression levels of membrane proteins pose significant challenges for in vitro research and drug discovery.
Figure 1. VLPs are formed when retroviral capsid proteins drive membrane budding, incorporating the target membrane protein. (Huang R, et al., 2016)
Virus-like particles (VLPs) are non-infectious nanostructures composed of self-assembling viral structural proteins that mimic the architecture and immunogenicity of natural viruses. VLPs have rapidly emerged as powerful tools in vaccine development, protein display, antibody discovery, and immunotherapy, especially suitable for structurally complex and difficult-to-express membrane proteins.
Creative Biogene has developed a robust VLP-based expression platform using mammalian cells, such as HEK293F, to enable the high-efficiency expression and native-like conformational display of multi-transmembrane proteins, including Claudin18.2, GPRC5D, STEAP1, and NaPi2b. This technology significantly enhances antibody screening and the development of therapeutics.
Native-like Viral Structure
VLPs closely mimic the geometry, surface structure, and particle size of real viruses, offering an ideal scaffold for immune response simulation. VLPs lack viral genomes, making them non-infectious and replication-deficient, ensuring a safe and compliant research environment.
Enhanced Immunogenicity
VLPs allow for repetitive, high-density display of membrane protein domains, significantly boosting antigenicity and overcoming immune tolerance. This is ideal for vaccine antigen presentation and immunotherapy.
High-Fidelity Expression
Utilizing mammalian expression systems like HEK293F allows for proper post-translational modifications and lipid membrane embedding, preserving the native conformation and bioactivity of the target protein.
Versatile Applications
Suitable for ELISA, SPR/BLI binding studies, antibody discovery, CAR-T target validation, Single-domain antibody screening, and functional assays.
Our VLP-based expression service covers end-to-end processes from gene design to functional analysis. Services can be fully integrated or modular, depending on project requirements.
Project Consultation & Design
We begin by identifying your target membrane protein and intended application. Our team analyzes its structure to select an optimal VLP scaffold and expression system.
Gene Synthesis & Vector Construction
The gene is codon-optimized and designed with necessary tags. We clone it into expression vectors such as pCDNA3.1 or pFastBac1.
Expression Optimization
The construct is transfected into suitable host cells like HEK293F, CHO, or insect cells, with co-expression of viral capsid proteins to drive VLP formation. Parameters are fine-tuned for optimal yield.
Purification & Quality Control
VLPs are purified using ultracentrifugation or affinity methods. QC includes SDS-PAGE, Western blot, ELISA, and TEM to confirm purity and particle integrity.
Functional Validation
We validate functionality via ELISA or SPR/BLI to confirm antigen presentation. Optional tests include CAR-T activation assays and animal immunogenicity studies.
Reporting & Support
You'll receive a full technical report detailing all results. Follow-up support includes antibody screening, CAR validation, and other custom assays as needed.
Enveloped VLP Systems:
Non-enveloped VLP Systems:
Available VLP Scaffolds:
| Application | Description |
| Vaccine Development | VLPs serve as potent antigen carriers to enhance immunogenicity |
| Antibody Discovery | Membrane proteins displayed in native conformation for hybridoma or phage library screening |
| CAR-T Therapy | Antigen validation, CAR candidate screening, and target confirmation |
| Drug Affinity Assays | SPR/BLI-based kinetic binding and functional profiling |
| Signal Pathway Studies | Analysis of receptor-mediated signaling via conformationally accurate proteins |
Accelerate your membrane protein research with our powerful VLP platform. Whether you're validating a CAR target, screening antibodies, or designing immunogens, Creative Biogene delivers high-quality, tailored services to move your project forward—faster and more confidently. We look forward to collaborating with you.
Q1: Can I request custom VLP scaffolds or expression hosts?
A1: Yes. We offer customizable scaffolds including Ferritin, mi3, HBcAg, and expression systems like HEK293, CHO, insect cells, and more.
Q2: How do you ensure the protein maintains its native conformation?
A2: By using mammalian expression systems and proper membrane embedding, followed by functional validation through SPR/BLI and conformational antibodies.
Q3: Do you support mutagenesis and structure-function studies?
A3: Absolutely. We offer site-directed mutagenesis, domain engineering, and enhanced immunogen design, all integrated into VLP display and testing.
Q4: Do you support combinatorial mutants? How do you account for possible synergistic or antagonistic effects among mutations?
A4: Yes, we provide end-to-end support for combinatorial mutation design and screening, including double, triple, and quadruple variants. Starting with rational combination strategies based on Bmax, Tm, and expression data, we use modular assembly and predictive modeling to evaluate synergy and avoid instability. Selected variants are expressed at pilot scale and assessed by Western blot, SEC, and thermal shift assays. For promising candidates, we offer downstream support for scale-up, purification, and structural studies (Cryo-EM or X-ray), ensuring beneficial effects are retained and adverse interactions minimized.
Q5: Can I use optimized constructs from this service for large-scale expression or structural studies?
A5: Absolutely. Our service bridges early-stage construct optimization with downstream structural workflows. We support expression system transfer to Baculovirus or mammalian platforms, mid-scale protein production, and high-purity purification via affinity and SEC. Stability and function assays (Tm, ligand binding, SEC-MALS) are available, and we offer Cryo-EM–ready preparation including complex formation and vitrification support. Clients receive complete documentation, raw data, and optional frozen aliquots—ensuring smooth integration into structure-function studies.
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