CFPS uses the components required for translation ribosomes, enzymes, tRNAs, and energy systems outside of intact cells. When you supply a DNA or RNA template, the system starts producing the target protein in a matter of hours. It’s a method that skips transformation, culturing, and cell lysis entirely.

For foundational understanding, see the NCBI resource on CFPS.

Fast Iteration Cycles

Instead of cloning genes into plasmids and growing cultures, you can test constructs same-day. This drastically improves design-build-test cycles in synthetic biology.

Learn more in this NIH-supported review on CFPS for rapid prototyping.

Protein Toxicity? Not a Problem

Toxic or unstable proteins that kill or stress living cells can be safely expressed in CFPS systems. There are no viability constraints.

Freeze-Dried for the Field

CFPS reactions can be freeze-dried and later rehydrated on demand, enabling field-deployable diagnostics and decentralized production.

T7Max Promoter Improves Transcription

In 2023, researchers at the University of Minnesota published a new T7 promoter variant called T7Max, which significantly enhances transcription from linear DNA.

Stabilizing Linear DNA in CFPS

Linear DNA is easier to prepare than plasmids, but degrades rapidly in CFPS. Adding GamS protein or Chi sequences protects the DNA.

See this NIH-supported study on linear template stabilization.

Multiplex Screening in Miniaturized Systems

Using microplates and droplet systems, labs are running hundreds of CFPS reactions at once—ideal for screening enzyme variants or tuning biosensors.

Learn about CFPS screening on-chip in this NIH article.

BioBits Kits for Classrooms

The BioBits kits allow students to perform cell-free expression just by adding water. It’s real protein synthesis, visible in the classroom.

On-Demand Protein Production

Field-deployable CFPS systems are being explored for on-site vaccine production and biosensor deployment.

Use in Space Research

NASA’s GeneLab has studied CFPS in microgravity as a solution for space-based biomanufacturing.

See the GeneLab CFPS dataset for GLDS-271

• Faster R&D: No need to grow cells or optimize transformation steps
• Flexible formats: From lab bench to space station
• Accessible to all: From elite labs to educational classrooms

By integrating CFPS with modern tools like T7Max, linear template design, and freeze-dried kits scientists can dramatically reduce timelines and increase throughput.

Learn more about optimized CFPS at the NIH CFPS guide.

CFPS is more than a technique it's an essential platform for rapid prototyping, diagnostics, and decentralization of biology. If your lab isn't using CFPS yet, now is the time to explore its possibilities.