Utilization of SUMO Tag and Freeze-thawing Method for a High-level Expression and Solubilization of Recombinant Human Angiotensinconverting Enzyme 2 (rhACE2) Protein in E. coli

Abstract

Background: SARS-CoV-2 uses angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as a receptor for entering the host cells. Production of the ACE2 molecule is important because of its potency to use as a blocker and therapeutic agent against SARS-CoV-2 for the prophylaxis and treatment of COVID-19.

Objective: The recombinant human ACE2 (rhACE2) is prone to form an inclusion body when expressed in the bacterial cells.

Methods: We used the SUMO tag fused to the rhACE2 molecule to increase the expression level and solubility of the fusion protein. Afterward, the freeze-thawing method plus 2 M urea solubilized aggregated proteins. Subsequently, the affinity of solubilized rhACE2 to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike was assayed by ELISA and SPR methods.

Results: SUMO protein succeeded in increasing the expression level but not solubilization of the fusion protein. The freeze-thawing method could solubilize and recover the aggregated fusion proteins significantly. Also, ELISA and SPR assays confirmed the interaction between solubilized rhACE2 and RBD with high affinity.

Conclusion: The SUMO tag and freeze- Conclusion: The SUMO tag and freeze-thawing method would be utilized for high-level expression and solubilization of recombinant rhACE2 protein.

Keywords: ACE2; RBD; SARS-CoV-2; SUMO tag; inclusion body; mild solubilization; rhACE2.