Expression and secretion of proteins in E. coli

Abstract

This review outlines approaches to the cloning and expression of proteins in Escherichia coli. The expression vectors described here (pIN-III derivatives) utilize the strong lipoprotein promoter, which is controlled by the lac-UV5 promoter-operator. These vectors provide the means for targeting a protein to any of the four subcellular compartments of the bacterial cell: cytoplasm, cytoplasmic membrane, periplasm, and outer membrane. Of particular importance is that secretion of proteins into the E. coli periplasm (using the OmpA signal peptide) is applicable for the production of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic proteins thereby enhancing protein activity and stability.