Microalgae-Based Recombinant Protein Expression Services
A Sustainable Revolution in Bioproduction
Microalgae-Based Recombinant Protein Expression Services
In an era where demand for monoclonal antibodies and complex recombinant proteins is exploding — for diagnostics, research reagents, and therapeutics — traditional mammalian cell systems (like CHO cells) are hitting their limits. High costs, lengthy timelines, viral contamination risks, heterogeneous glycosylation, and a significant environmental footprint make it difficult to meet global needs affordably and sustainably.
A groundbreaking alternative now exists: microalgae-based recombinant protein expression services.
Why Microalgae Are a Game-Changing Host
Microalgae are photosynthetic eukaryotic microorganisms that combine the best features of microbial and mammalian systems:
Eukaryotic Machinery
Correct protein folding & human-like post-translational modifications
Photosynthetic Growth
Powered by light & CO₂, no animal-derived components
Inherently Safe
No risk of mammalian viral contamination
Ultra-Low Footprint
Fix ~7 tons CO₂ per kg of antibody, near-neutral GHG emissions
Key Advantages Over Traditional Mammalian Platforms
| Feature | Microalgae-Based Platform | Mammalian Cell Platform (e.g. CHO) |
|---|---|---|
| Cell line development timeline | 20–22 weeks | 32+ weeks |
| Production cost reduction | Up to 70 % lower | Baseline (high) |
| Viral contamination risk | None | Present |
| Glycosylation profile | Homogeneous, human-like | Often heterogeneous |
| Cultivation temperature | ~19 °C (light-driven) | 37 °C (high energy) |
| CO₂ footprint | Strongly negative (CO₂-fixing) | High positive emissions |
| Scale achieved | Routinely 200 L → industrial path | Established but capital-intensive |
Proven Performance
Multiple full-length IgG antibodies have been successfully expressed, including Trastuzumab (anti-HER2), Rituximab (anti-CD20), and therapeutic antibodies targeting neuroblastoma, Hepatitis B, and Marburg virus.
Validation data consistently show that microalgae-produced antibodies are functionally indistinguishable from CHO-produced counterparts while offering superior batch-to-batch consistency.
Microalgae-based TratuzumAb is functional and can be used for Diagnostic and Research tools
What the Service Typically Includes
- Gene synthesis & vector design optimized for microalgae
- Stable cell line development (transformation + clonal selection)
- Small- to mid-scale production (mL to 200 L+ in photobioreactors)
- Full downstream processing & purification
- Comprehensive analytical characterization (binding, functionality, glycosylation, endotoxin, etc.)
- Delivery of RUO, diagnostic-grade, or preclinical/therapeutic-grade material
Ready for Faster, Cleaner, and More Affordable Recombinant Proteins?
Microalgae-based antibodies deliver the same high quality and functionality as CHO
based-antibodies—at a fraction of the cost, with greater safety,
and a sustainable edge that protects our planet.