United KingdomA research team led by Professor Joongoo Lee at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) has developed an automated, modular method for creating reconstituted cell-free systems used to synthesize proteins outside living cells. The new platform significantly reduces preparation costs by 95% compared to commercial kits, improves protein synthesis performance fivefold, and shortens preparation time from four days to two days. The system uses an E. coli lysate-based approach combined with an automated liquid-handling system to streamline the process, reduce manual effort, and enhance reproducibility. Its modular design allows researchers to customize components for specific applications, such as incorporating noncanonical amino acids into therapeutic molecules like antibody-drug conjugates. This advancement could benefit biofoundries—automated facilities using AI and robotics for drug discovery and enzyme engineering—by providing a more affordable and flexible alternative to existing methods.
Bias read (Center): The article presents scientific research without political implications. It focuses on technological innovation and its potential applications in biotechnology and pharmaceutical development. There is no indication of ideological framing or partisan emphasis.
