Heterologous Gene Expression in Pichia pastoris: Success Stories and Commercial Ventures

Heterologous protein production in the methylotrophic yeast, Pichia pastoris, has gained immense popularity owing to the growing demands for recombinant molecules in the health-care and industrial sectors. Its ability to produce correctly folded, bioactive and glycosylated products at high cell densities makes it a desirable expression platform for molecules of therapeutic relevance. Its well-studied genetics and availability of efficient vectors and strong promoters have encouraged researchers to utilize it as an expression platform for large-scale production. Further, genetic manipulation of P. pastoris has successfully led to the development of glycoengineered strains that are robust and effective in producing humanized glycoproteins. The P. pastoris expression system has many applications, where scientists are constantly working towards the commercialization of its products. Currently, few commercially marketed Pichia-based products are used for agricultural, industrial and medical interventions. However, many recombinant products are in the preclinical stage, waiting for regulatory approval. This chapter highlights the current scenario of the protein production system and genetic manipulations based on P. pastoris. Further, the chapter discusses its applications and prospects as a leading protein expression platform for enzymes and biopharmaceuticals.