Cell-free translation in reversed micelles (RM) of surfactants in organic solvents is demonstrated using as an example the synthesis of human interleukin-2 by the wheat germ translation system solubilized in Brij 96 (oleyl-poly(10)oxyethylene ether) RM in cyclohexane. The translation system components and the product were recovered from the RM system by acetone precipitation. The recovery and translation reaction yields depended on the degree of surfactant hydration. The translation yields in Brij 96 RM were close to that observed in regular aqueous solution. The Brij 96 RM system is regarded as a promising media for the cell-free synthesis of hydrophobic proteins. Meanwhile, no translation reaction was observed in Aerosol OT (sodium bis(2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate) RM in octane, which presumably is due to the ability of Aerosol OT to bind Mg2− ions necessary for the functioning of the translation apparatus.
