James P Merryweather

Title: Innovations of James P Merryweather

Introduction

James P Merryweather is a notable inventor based in Berkeley, California. He has made significant contributions to the field of biotechnology, particularly in the expression of proteins using yeast as a host. With a total of five patents to his name, Merryweather's work has advanced the understanding and application of protein expression systems.

Latest Patents

Merryweather's latest patents include a method for the expression of heterologous proteins in yeast. This invention provides compositions and methods for expressing heterologous mammalian proteins and their secretion in a biologically active mature form using yeast host cells. The compositions consist of nucleotide sequences encoding a signal peptide sequence for a yeast secreted protein, an optional leader peptide sequence, a native propeptide leader sequence, and a sequence for the mature protein of interest. Each element is operably linked to a yeast promoter and associated with a processing site recognized by yeast proteolytic enzymes. This innovation is particularly useful for transforming yeast host cells, which can then be cultured and screened for the secretion of biologically active proteins.

Another significant patent involves polynucleotide sequences that encode human prepro insulin-like growth factors I and II. These sequences are typically obtained from the human genome by screening a cDNA library from human liver cells. They can be utilized for cloning and expression of insulin-like growth factors in suitable hosts, as well as for producing DNA and RNA for hybridization probes. Notably, E. coli strains HB101(phigf1) and HB101(phigf2) were deposited at the ATCC on June 8, 1984, and granted accession numbers 39729 and 39730, respectively.

Career Highlights

Merryweather has been associated with Chiron Corporation, where he has contributed to various innovative projects. His work has had a lasting impact on the field of biotechnology, particularly in the development of methods for protein expression.

Collaborations

Merryweather has collaborated with notable coworkers such as Patricia A Tekamp-Olson and Lawrence S Cousens. Their combined expertise has furthered advancements in their respective fields.

Conclusion

James P Merryweather's contributions to biotechnology through his innovative patents have significantly advanced the field of protein expression. His work continues to influence research and applications in this vital area of science.