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Proteinase Inhibitor for Fish Processing

 

Reference ID:
 OSU 96-26
Inventors:
Haejung An, Thomas Seymour, Michael Morrissey, David Barnes, and Fugen Li
Description:
 A cloned cDNA encoding the cysteine proteinase inhibitor cystatin has been isolated  from trout. Via an appropriate expression vector, the trout cDNA was introduced into  host cells, such as yeast, to produce large quantities of recombinant cystatin. Also included is a method for the purification of the recombinant cystatin. The encoded  cystatin protein is useful to inhibit cysteine proteinases in food processing, for example in the production of surimi (an elastic gel from fish muscle used in imitation crab, scallops and shrimp).
Applications:
 Surimi consumption has increased dramatically since 1980; current production is approximately 155 million pounds per year, primarily from Alaskan pollock. The  recombinant cystatin will be useful to inhibit degradation of fish muscle by native proteinases prior to processing. For example, the recombinant cystatin may be added to the meat of fish species such as Pacific whiting, arrowtooth flounder and croaker; species avoided in the past due to their soft texture. Current food-grade proteinase  inhibitors are of limited use due to their negative impact on surimi quality, such as off-colors and flavors and high cost. In addition to use in surimi production, recombinant  cystatin is particularly well suited for use in food processing in general.
License Terms:
 Available for exclusive licensing.
Patent Status:
 US Patent 6,066,471 issued May 23, 2000.

 

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  Mary Foley Phillips, Interim Assistant Director
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