This invention can stably express recombinant Wnt proteins by using afamins.

Key Word : Wnt, Wnt3a, Wnt5a, afamin, protein purification

Background / Context / Abstract:

Wnt proteins play important roles for maintaining stem cells, bone homeostasis and cancer progression. Although there is a high demand for bioactive Wnt not only in basic research but also in therapy, it is difficult to purify Wnt due to its unique molecular features (a modified specific fatty acid (palmitoleoyl)). According to a recent report, Wnt3a was purified successfully by a certain method with fetal serum (FBS or FCS) and specific surfactant agent (CHAPS). However, it has never been successful to produce bioactive Wnt by an affinity purification.
This invention can stably express recombinant Wnt proteins by using afamins (α-albumin). Researchers’ results suggest Wnt can be purified without FCS and any surfactant agent. Our inventors have already purified at least Wnt3a and Wnt5a successfully by this novel method, and they have high activity, high stability and solubility in common biological buffer solution.
* You can see the details in a publication described below.

Technology Overview:

・A serum-free and detergent-free affinity purification system
・Providing Wnt proteins with long activity (4°C)
・Low cost and simple purification procedure

Further Details:

Mihara E., et al., eLife (2016) 5, e11621.  DOI: 10.7554/eLife.11621

Potential Applications / Potential Markets:

A simple purification procedure of recombinant Wnt proteins.

State of Development / Opportunity / Seeking:

●Opportunity
・Available for exclusive and non-exclusive licensing
・Exclusive/non-exclusive evaluation for defined period (set up for options)
・Collaborative/supportive research
●Seeking
・Licensing
・Development partner

IP Status:

WO2016/104646 (Issued: JP, National phase EP, US, JPDIV)

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