Biotechnology research widely uses protein engineering techniques. That is done when designing or modifying proteins. Proteins may be modified and designed when special applications need them that relate to the biotech industry. Scientists use techniques to make sure that proteins are isolated prior to undergoing the purification process. It is done so that the right studies can be conducted on the specifications and conformations of the substrate. Also, the reactions between ligands and proteins are studied in addition to the enzyme-specific activities. Ligands are proteins that attach to specific receptor proteins. When a protein is purified, the degree of its purity depends mainly on the specific protein's demand. In some cases, a basic crude extract will be sufficient. With other uses, like in the food industry and pharmaceuticals, a higher purification level is necessary. Therefore, several different purification techniques will be needed to achieve the level of purity that is desired.

Developing a Strategy

Every step within the protein purification process works to help reduce product content. Therefore, the ideal purification strategies are the ones that result in the highest level of purification involving the fewest steps. However, the steps that the process uses will depend on the size, charge, solubility, and other characteristics of the protein that is used. Therefore, the following procedures are better suited to use with single cytosolic purifying proteins. Different techniques are required in cases with cytosolic protein complexes.

Preparation of the Crude Extract

Getting the crude extract prepared is the first major step involved in purifying intracellular proteins. Intracellular proteins exist inside of the cells. Usually, crude extracts contain a highly complex combination of proteins that are derived from the cell's cytoplasm in addition to macromolecules, nutrients, and cofactors. Once the crude extract is prepared, it can be used for a number of biotechnology applications. A number of subsequent steps will need to be undertaken if purity becomes a problem. Protein extracted are prepared by cellular debris being removed. Cell lysis creates this. It is achieved by using sonication, a French Press, chemicals, or enzymes.

Debris Removal from a Crude Extract

To eliminate debris from an extract, it needs to undergo the centrifugation process. This is where Flux Pumps can be considered. Once that process is complete supernatant will have been recovered successfully. When it comes to extracellular preparations, proteins are obtained naturally when cells are removed as part of the centrifugation process. Thermostable enzymes are required by some biotechnology practices. Thermostable enzymes are able to withstand the highest temperatures without becoming denatured. High activity levels are also maintained by thermostable enzymes.

Intermediate Steps of Protein Purification

So far, a majority of modern biotechnical protocols have used commercially available kits. They also have used techniques that provide a more ready-made solution for a majority of standard procedures. When protein purification activities are conducted, filters and gel-filtration columns are frequently used.

Dialysis Kit

When a dialysis kit is used, the best thing to do is follow the instructions directly that the kit provides. These instructions help to ensure that the right amount of solution gets used along with the correct waiting time after that. The kits will specify a certain waiting time to ensure the eluent is at the proper concentration when it goes into a clean test tube before being used.

Chromatographic Methods

The method is conducted by using either bench-top columns or automated HPLC equipment. When HPLC is utilized, the size-exclusion, reverse-phase, or ion exchange method is used. A diode array or laser technology is used to detect the samples that are obtained.