Automated Cell-free Protein Synthesis for Distributed Biomanufacturing

Recombinant proteins are fundamental to modern medicine, enabling research, diagnostics, and drug discovery, yet their access is often restricted by centralized manufacturing and cold-chain distribution. Decentralized, on-site biomanufacturing can enable research, provide resilience, and advance personalized medicine. Here, we introduce MANGO (MANufacturing on the GO), a purpose-built, open-source device designed for automated, benchtop cell-free protein synthesis and purification. Computer-controlled synthesis and purification are mediated through biomedical-grade pumps, valves, and a microchannel manifold, enabling rapid protein production directly at the point-of-use. To demonstrate MANGO’s utility, we produced and validated a diverse range of proteins, including nanobodies against SARS-CoV-2 and TNF, cloning enzymes, and diagnostic enzymes, with performance equivalent to their commercial counterparts. We further deployed MANGO in Brazil and Colombia to support patient trials for SARS-CoV-2 and dengue virus diagnostics. These results establish MANGO as a low-cost, portable platform that can democratize access to bioreagents in both high- and low-resource settings and, ultimately, expand participation in the bioeconomy.