Recombinant Human CD81, N-His

Description of Recombinant Human CD81, N-His

Introduction

Recombinant Human CD81 (rCD81) is a protein that plays a crucial role in various biological processes, including cell adhesion, migration, and signaling. It is a member of the tetraspanin family of proteins, which are characterized by four transmembrane domains and two extracellular loops. In this article, we will discuss the structure, activity, and applications of rCD81.

Structure of Recombinant Human CD81

The gene encoding rCD81 is located on chromosome 11 in humans and spans approximately 7.5 kb. The protein is composed of 236 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 26 kDa. It is a type I transmembrane protein, with a short cytoplasmic tail and a large extracellular domain. The extracellular domain of rCD81 contains four cysteine residues, which form disulfide bonds with other tetraspanins, contributing to the formation of a complex network of interactions among these proteins.

Activity of Recombinant Human CD81

The primary function of rCD81 is to act as a molecular organizer, bringing together various signaling molecules and receptors on the cell surface. It is involved in the regulation of cell adhesion, migration, and signaling processes, making it an essential protein in maintaining normal cellular functions. rCD81 is also known to interact with other proteins, such as integrins, growth factor receptors, and immune cell receptors, which further expands its role in various cellular processes.

One of the most well-studied functions of rCD81 is its involvement in viral entry. It has been shown to act as a co-receptor for the hepatitis C virus (HCV), facilitating its entry into host cells. This interaction is mediated by the second extracellular loop of rCD81, which binds to the HCV envelope protein. In addition to HCV, rCD81 has also been found to be involved in the entry of other viruses, including Ebola virus and dengue virus.

Applications of Recombinant Human CD81

The unique structure and functions of rCD81 make it a valuable tool in various research and clinical applications. One of the most common applications of rCD81 is in the production of recombinant proteins. The extracellular domain of rCD81 has been used as a fusion partner to increase the solubility and stability of target proteins. This has been particularly useful in the production of membrane proteins, which are notoriously difficult to purify.

Another important application of rCD81 is in the development of vaccines. As mentioned earlier, rCD81 is involved in viral entry, making it a potential target for vaccine development. By blocking the interaction between rCD81 and viral envelope proteins, the entry of viruses into host cells can be prevented, providing a potential strategy for vaccine development against viruses such as HCV and Ebola.

Furthermore, rCD81 has also been explored as a potential therapeutic target in various diseases. Its involvement in cell signaling and migration processes makes it a potential target for cancer therapy. Inhibition of rCD81 has been shown to reduce the migration and invasion of cancer cells, making it a promising target for the development of anti-cancer drugs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, rCD81 is a versatile protein with a wide range of functions, including its role in viral entry, cell adhesion, and signaling processes. Its unique structure and interactions with other proteins make it a valuable tool in various research and clinical applications, including the production of recombinant proteins, vaccine development, and potential therapeutic targets. Further studies on rCD81 are needed to fully understand its functions and potential applications in the future.