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High Expression in Mammalian Cells Without Amplification

Abstract

We have used mammalian cell lines, constructed with the expression system described, to express high levels of a heterologous gene product (human growth hormone) without recourse to gene amplification. The system employs commonly available components that combine efficiently to yield high expression. These components include the human metallothionein IIA promoter, Chinese hamster ovary cells and a protein free medium perfected for them. The system is suitable for large scale production during which growth hormone accumulates in the nutrient medium to levels above 200 mg/liter and purity of up to 90 percent.

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Friedman, J., Cofer, C., Anderson, C. et al. High Expression in Mammalian Cells Without Amplification. Nat Biotechnol 7, 359–362 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1038/nbt0489-359

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