Recombinant Human APP Protein, N-His

Description of Recombinant Human APP Protein, N-His

Introduction

Recombinant human amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a protein that plays a critical role in the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. This protein is involved in the formation of amyloid plaques, a hallmark feature of Alzheimer’s disease. In recent years, recombinant human APP protein has become a valuable tool in the study of Alzheimer’s disease, as well as in the development of potential treatments for this debilitating condition.

Structure of Recombinant Human APP Protein

Recombinant human APP protein is a transmembrane protein that is expressed in many different tissues throughout the body. It is a type I integral membrane protein, meaning that it spans the cell membrane and has a portion of the protein exposed on the extracellular side and another portion on the intracellular side. The protein is approximately 770 amino acids in length and has a molecular weight of 110 kDa.

The structure of recombinant human APP protein is complex and consists of several functional domains. The extracellular portion of the protein contains a large N-terminal domain, followed by a highly conserved domain known as the E1 domain. This domain is involved in the binding of APP to other proteins and is thought to play a role in the regulation of APP processing. The E2 domain, also located in the extracellular portion, is responsible for the binding of APP to the cell membrane.

The intracellular portion of recombinant human APP protein contains a juxtamembrane domain, which is involved in the regulation of APP trafficking and processing. This domain is followed by a C-terminal domain, which is important for the binding of APP to other proteins and for its intracellular signaling functions.

Activity of Recombinant Human APP Protein

Recombinant human APP protein is primarily known for its role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. In healthy individuals, APP is processed by enzymes in the body to produce smaller fragments, including the amyloid beta peptide. However, in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, this processing is altered and leads to the accumulation of amyloid beta peptides, which form plaques in the brain.

The exact mechanism of how APP contributes to Alzheimer’s disease is still not fully understood. However, it is believed that the overproduction of amyloid beta peptides, as well as the formation of toxic forms of the peptide, contribute to the neurodegeneration and cognitive decline seen in Alzheimer’s disease.

In addition to its role in Alzheimer’s disease, recombinant human APP protein has also been found to play a role in other neurodegenerative conditions, such as Down syndrome and cerebral amyloid angiopathy. It has also been implicated in the regulation of neuronal development and synaptic function.

Applications of Recombinant Human APP Protein

The production of recombinant human APP protein has greatly advanced our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and has also opened up new avenues for potential treatments. One major application of recombinant APP protein is in the development of animal models for Alzheimer’s disease. These models allow researchers to study the effects of altered APP processing and the accumulation of amyloid beta peptides in a controlled environment.

Recombinant human APP protein is also used in in vitro studies to investigate the role of APP in Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions. Researchers can manipulate the protein in various ways to better understand its functions and potential therapeutic targets.

Furthermore, recombinant human APP protein has been used in the development of potential treatments for Alzheimer’s disease. For example, monoclonal antibodies targeting APP have been tested in clinical trials as a way to reduce the accumulation of amyloid beta peptides and potentially slow the progression of the disease.

Conclusion

In summary, recombinant human APP protein is a critical protein involved in the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Its complex structure and various functional domains make it a valuable tool for researchers in understanding the disease and developing potential treatments. With ongoing research and advancements in technology, the use of recombinant human APP protein will continue to play an important role in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.