PeplicaTM Technology

What Is PeplicaTM?

Although methods for amplifying DNA, most notably polymerase chain reaction (PCR), have been known for many years, no method for amplifying proteins has been described until now. PeplicaTM (for peptide/protein replica) is a patented breakthrough technology that, for the first time, allows proteins to be amplified. PeplicaTM can be thought of as a "protein photocopier".

How Does PeplicaTM Work?

In nature, the genetic code is encoded in the nucleic acid molecules DNA and RNA. Nucleic acid genes are used to make individual protein molecules through a process called "translation". In PeplicaTM, translation is made to function in reverse ("reverse translation"). Thus, the protein code (encoded in a protein's unique amino acid sequence) is used to make DNA or RNA genes.

After the reverse translation step, the resulting nucleic acid is amplified by a conventional nucleic acid amplification method, such as PCR. Once amplified, the identity of the protein can be determined and, if desired, more protein can be produced. In theory, PeplicaTM can be used to detect as little as one copy of a protein molecule.

What Can PeplicaTM Be Used for?

Protein amplification is valuable in magnifying minute quantities of molecules for detection and identification. We are pursuing two major applications of PeplicaTM.

Diagnostics: Detection of extremely small amounts of a known protein or peptide

  • The target protein/peptide is captured using an immobilized antibody or receptor, then
  • The protein/peptide is detected by reverse translation of a known 3-5 amino acid sequence

Drug Discovery: Detection of rare proteins and peptides

  • PeplicaTM can be used to detect new rare molecules associated with T-cell, G Protein-Coupled, or MHC receptors.

PeplicaTM Technology is currently under development in our laboratories. Mirari has a broad pending patent position on this revolutionary new proteomics technology.