Protein Expression/Protein Analysis/Protein Crystallization

Genes make up the blueprint of life, and proteins put that plan into action. As enzymes, these macromolecules drive reactions, make up important structures, and facilitate cell to cell communication. Protein expression assays reveal the amount of specific proteins in a sample, and protein analysis and crystallization explores the structure of such proteins. Although gene-expression experiments show whether genes are on or off, protein expression studies tells the scientist which proteins are actually expressed.

Caliper has collaborated with PhyNexus, Inc. to automate workflows associated with protein expression optimization, purification, and analysis using a combination of automated liquid handling PhyTip Columns and microfluidic detection platforms. PhyNexus, Inc. has developed a unique automated technology to address the need for high throughput performance for small-volume protein purification with its range of PhyTip columns. These columns allow for rapid and routine parallel purification in a walk-away fashion.  The unique design of the PhyTip columns allows for a breadth of standard and custom resins that can purify a range of proteins from mg to mg quantities along with automated desalting and buffer exchange capabilities.  Methods developed result in high quality and concentration while ensuring high activity for downstream applications.

PhyTip columns are compatible with the Caliper Sciclone and Zephyr liquid handling instruments for the parallel processing of 96 samples.  Generation of these many samples requires a reliable and efficient means of analysis.  Once isolated and purified our LabChip GXII is the perfect tool for high throughput analysis. Utilizing our proprietary protein analysis kits, the GXII’s microfluidic technology can measure the sizes of proteins that are 14–200 kiloDaltons and in samples made up of a wide range of concentrations, from 5–2,000 nanograms per microliter. In addition, this system is extremely efficient—analyzing a 96-well plate in just 75 minutes.

Caliper’s suite of products makes protein isolation and analysis simple and efficient. From our Staccato ELISA workstations and Staccato Protein Workstations to our LabChip GXII system, Caliper has engineered each solution to work as well independently as they do as integrated systems.