Production of Secreted Proteins in Yeast

Human serum albumin (HSA) is the largest single protein component of plasma1 where its role is to maintain normal osmolarity and to act as a carrier for numerous small molecules (including nutrients and metabolites) many of which would otherwise have low solubility or be poorly tolerated in free solution. Compounds which it is capable of binding include fatty acids, bilirubin and numerous drugs.2 Unlike many recombinant proteins currently being considered by the biotechnology industry, albumin is already sold and used in large quantities.3 It is prepared by fractionation of donated blood and is used in the treatment of patients requiring fluid replacement.4 It is used particularly in the treatment of burn victims, those suffering from traumatic shock and some special groups of surgical patients. However its use is much affected by the custom and practice of particular countries and the preference of individual doctors.