Homework — Cell Free Systems

Warning

Mandatory for Committed Listeners and MIT/Harvard students.

Part A — Questions

Key readings:

  1. Explain the main advantages of cell‑free protein synthesis over in vivo expression. Name two cases where cell‑free is preferable.
  2. Describe the main components of a cell‑free expression system and the role of each.
  3. Why is energy provision/regeneration critical? Propose a method to ensure a continuous ATP supply.
  4. Compare prokaryotic vs eukaryotic cell‑free systems. Choose a protein for each and justify.
  5. Design an experiment to optimize expression of a membrane protein; list challenges and mitigations.
  6. You observe low yield; provide three plausible causes and a troubleshooting plan for each.

Part B — Individual Final Project Report

Tip

Start exploring your final project in depth this week. The minimum requirement is completing Aim 1.

MIT/Harvard tracking

Key ordering dates (MIT/Harvard):

  • Twist — Apr 11, 2025
  • Thermo Fisher — Apr 11, 2025
  • AddGene plasmids — Apr 11, 2025
  • NEB — May 1, 2025 (rolling)
  • GeneWiz — May 1, 2025