Maltose binding protein

Maltose Binding Protein (MBP) is a part of the maltose/maltodextrin system of Escherichia coli, which is responsible for the uptake and efficient catabolism of maltodextrins. It is a complex regulatory and transport system involving many proteins and protein complexes.

Use
It is used in purification of recombinant proteins. A fusion protein of MBP with the protein of interest (say protein X) can be created. The fusion protein binds to amylose columns while all other proteins flow through. The MBP-protein X fusion can be purified by eluting the column with maltose. Once the fusion protein is obtained in purified form the protein of interest (X) can be cleaved from MBP with a specific protease. Protein X can be separated from MBP by passing through the amylose column again.