TRANSIENT VERSUS STABLE expression

Transient protein expression against stable expression is an often discussed topic. The advantages and disadvantages of both expression methods are well known to Cellca team. In first instance transient protein expression might be quicker to obtain representative protein; however, a closer look demonstrates that stable protein expression is more representative and doesn’t necessarily take longer.

According to our analysis transient expression might be 2 weeks quicker than stable expression. The pro’s and con’s are listed in the table.

In both expression methods cells have a different biology. In transient expression there is little or no gene integration into the genome. Through stable expression genetic set up of the cells will be altered. The cells have more time to adapt to express a foreign gene and regulate their protein synthesis and post-translational modification machinery. A more representative protein in terms of protein quality might be produced through stable gene expression.

An additional benefit of stable expression is, that the transfected cells can be frozen, and by repeated demand on protein the cells can be thaw and protein can be produced from the same cells producing protein with the comparable quality.