Sigma-Aldrich Protein Delivery System Mcherry Pods

Polyhedrin delivery systems (PODS) designed to efficiently deliver therapeutic proteins to target cells, tissues, or organs within the body. These systems aim to overcome challenges associated with protein-based therapeutics, such as their large size, susceptibility to degradation, limited stability, and challenges in achieving targeted delivery. We offer protein delivery systems, containing polyhedrin protein co-crystalized with mCherry which is a uniquely versatile biomarker and, encased into PODS crystals, offers a simple way to visualize and localize PODS crystals embedded in biomaterials, such as hydrogels and scaffolds, using fluorescence microscopy. PODS mCherry crystals can be excited at 587 nm and optimally detected at 610 nm, compatible with commonly available filter sets.

PODS are composed of a bioactive cargo protein within a polyhedrin crystal lattice, with polyhedrin as the main protein. The 25 µg SKU size indicates the amount of bioactive cargo, typically 0.5% to 5% of the total protein. For instance, a 25 µg SKU at a 2% cargo loading contains 1.25 mg of total protein.PODS enable sustained release of cargo proteins when proteases degrade the polyhedrin scaffold. Growth factors are not bioavailable until released, and their concentration in media depends on the amount added and the release rate. In 10% serum, peak levels are usually reached within 24-48 hours, with about 20% of the cargo becoming soluble.

PODS often require lower concentrations than conventional growth factors, as they maintain effective levels. Pre-incubating with serum or proteases enhances availability, while conventional factors can be added for immediate effects. Optimal amounts should be determined empirically.

PODS is a registered trademark of Cell Guidance Systems Ltd