Mammalian cells, primarily Chinese hamster ovary (CHO), are often used as an expression system for synthesis of protein that needs post-translation modification, such as glycosylation. The following table summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of mammalian cells as an expression system.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Capable of post-translation modification, including phosphorylation and glycosylation | Expensive |
| Protein produced is properly folded | Poor secretion |
Figure 1. Mammalian expression system.