An expression vector encoding a lacZ reporter gene facilitates identification of stable, high-producing CHO cell clones

Abstract

We describe a vector and a streamlined procedure for isolating high-producing stable mammalian cell transfectants. The vector encodes the Escherichia coli lacZ gene as a reporter. We show that levels of beta-galactosidase activity, assayed in situ in clonal isolates, can be used to identify clones producing high levels of the protein of interest (in this case, soluble human CD4 protein).