My question is based on the reasons why we take only these species for the growth of our GOI but not other species that exist in nature. I may get my answers in the AI tools but I prefer a more scientific backed answer, than an AI answering my question with a minimal chance of errors.
The simple answer is that they are highly defined, both have plasmids, are both haploid (at least part of the time for yeast), and were the first microbes used for cloning. Once a tendency is started, it is often difficult to change. Initially cloning in both species relied on complementation, i.e., cloning a wild type gene into an auxotroph. Since both are haploids, it is easy to create mutants so to find the complementing gene. The details of their biology goes on and on as to why they became the primary cloning hosts (except don't forget animal cell culture, which was developed simultaneously though with greater hurdles).
Because E.coli is the most studied bacterium and its genetics is well known. Same is true for yeast as a model eukaryotic system. Transformation of these hosts are easy and both the genomes are completely sequenced.
E.coli and yeast are widely used as host systems for gene cloning and protein expression due to their well-characterized genetics, ease of manipulation, and high efficiency. E.coli is favored for rapid growth, cost-effectiveness, and robust expression systems, making it ideal for producing simple, non-post-translationally modified proteins. It supports diverse expression vectors and allows large-scale protein production in a short time. In contrast, yeast, a eukaryotic host, is preferred when proteins require proper folding, post-translational modifications such as glycosylation, or complex assembly. Yeast expression systems enable precise transcriptional control and are suitable for producing functional eukaryotic proteins that cannot be accurately expressed in prokaryotic systems.
For E.coli, being highly cost effective and genetically tractable, as it multiply rapidly and gives high yeild results. Also E coli lacks Post Translational Modifications (PTM), when POI doesnt need these modifications this is another plus advantage as it simplifies the process.
For Yeast, it can do PTM which may be required for correct folding and functionality of eukrayotic proteins for relevant POI (protein of interest). Also yeast can secrete recombinant proteins directly into the culture medium, this simplifies the process of purification of target proteins. It also show easy genetic manipulation and yeild like E.coli. xx
- Badges
- Science topic