Chinese Hamster Ovary

Definition

Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells are a widely used mammalian cell line derived from the ovary of the Chinese hamster. These cells have become a prominent tool in the field of genetic engineering, particularly in the production of recombinant proteins and the study of whole genome methods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CHO cells are a popular choice for the production of recombinant proteins due to their ability to perform post-translational modifications, which are essential for the proper folding and function of many therapeutic proteins.
2. The genome of CHO cells has been extensively studied, and the availability of whole genome sequencing data has facilitated the development of genetic engineering techniques for these cells.
3. CHO cells are widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for the production of biopharmaceuticals, such as monoclonal antibodies, hormones, and enzymes, which are used to treat a variety of medical conditions.
4. Genetic engineering of CHO cells has enabled the development of new therapeutic proteins, as well as the optimization of existing ones, by modifying their properties, such as increased stability, improved efficacy, or reduced immunogenicity.
5. The use of CHO cells in whole genome methods, such as genome-wide association studies and high-throughput screening, has contributed to the understanding of cellular processes and the identification of potential drug targets.

Review Questions

• Explain the role of Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells in the production of recombinant proteins.
  • CHO cells are a widely used mammalian cell line for the production of recombinant proteins due to their ability to perform post-translational modifications, which are essential for the proper folding and function of many therapeutic proteins. The genetic engineering of CHO cells has enabled the development of new and optimized recombinant proteins, such as monoclonal antibodies, hormones, and enzymes, which are used to treat a variety of medical conditions in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Describe how the availability of whole genome sequencing data for CHO cells has facilitated the development of genetic engineering techniques.
  • The genome of CHO cells has been extensively studied, and the availability of whole genome sequencing data has provided a comprehensive understanding of the genetic makeup of these cells. This information has facilitated the development of genetic engineering techniques, allowing researchers to manipulate the genetic material of CHO cells more effectively. By modifying the genes of CHO cells, scientists can optimize the production of recombinant proteins, improve their properties, and gain deeper insights into cellular processes through whole genome methods, such as genome-wide association studies and high-throughput screening.
• Analyze the contribution of Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells to the pharmaceutical industry and the advancement of genetic engineering applications.
  • CHO cells have become a crucial tool in the pharmaceutical industry, as they are widely used for the production of biopharmaceuticals, such as monoclonal antibodies, hormones, and enzymes. The genetic engineering of CHO cells has enabled the development of new therapeutic proteins and the optimization of existing ones, by modifying their properties to improve stability, efficacy, and reduce immunogenicity. Furthermore, the availability of whole genome sequencing data for CHO cells has facilitated the use of these cells in whole genome methods, which has contributed to the understanding of cellular processes and the identification of potential drug targets. The versatility and importance of CHO cells in the pharmaceutical industry and the field of genetic engineering have made them an indispensable tool in the development of new and improved therapeutic treatments.

Related terms

Recombinant Protein: A protein that is produced by inserting a gene encoding the desired protein into a host cell, such as CHO cells, which then express and secrete the recombinant protein.

Genetic Engineering:

The process of manipulating the genetic material of an organism, such as inserting or modifying genes, to achieve desired traits or produce specific products.

Whole Genome Sequencing: The process of determining the complete DNA sequence of an organism's genome, providing a comprehensive understanding of its genetic makeup.