Recombinant Human IFT52 Protein, N-His

Description of Recombinant Human IFT52 Protein, N-His

Introduction

Recombinant Human IFT52 Protein is a highly purified protein that is produced through recombinant DNA technology. It is a key component of the intraflagellar transport (IFT) complex, which plays a crucial role in the formation and maintenance of cilia and flagella in eukaryotic cells. This protein has been extensively studied and has shown to have important functions in various cellular processes. In this article, we will discuss the structure, activity, and applications of Recombinant Human IFT52 Protein.

Structure of Recombinant Human IFT52 Protein

The gene encoding for IFT52 is located on chromosome 20 in humans and consists of 8 exons. The mature protein has a molecular weight of approximately 52 kDa and is composed of 470 amino acids. The primary structure of IFT52 contains a highly conserved coiled-coil domain, which is essential for its interaction with other IFT complex proteins. It also has a C-terminal WD40 repeat domain, which is involved in protein-protein interactions and plays a role in the assembly and disassembly of the IFT complex.

Activity of Recombinant Human IFT52 Protein

Recombinant Human IFT52 Protein is an essential component of the IFT complex, which is responsible for the transport of proteins and other molecules along the ciliary and flagellar axonemes. This transport is crucial for the proper functioning and maintenance of these organelles. IFT52 interacts with other IFT proteins, such as IFT20 and IFT88, to form a complex that moves along the axoneme using kinesin and dynein motors. This process is essential for the assembly of cilia and flagella, as well as for the delivery of signaling molecules, nutrients, and waste products to and from these organelles.

Applications of Recombinant Human IFT52 Protein

Recombinant Human IFT52 Protein has been widely used in various research applications, including the study of ciliopathies, which are genetic disorders caused by defects in cilia and flagella. It has also been used to investigate the role of IFT complex in cellular signaling pathways and to understand the mechanisms of cilia and flagella assembly. Additionally, this protein has been utilized in drug discovery studies, as defects in the IFT complex have been linked to various diseases, including cancer, obesity, and neurological disorders.

Role in Ciliopathies

Studies have shown that mutations in the gene encoding for IFT52 can lead to ciliopathies, such as Bardet-Biedl syndrome and Joubert syndrome. These disorders are characterized by defects in cilia and flagella, which can result in a wide range of symptoms, including vision loss, kidney abnormalities, and developmental delays. Recombinant Human IFT52 Protein has been used to study the effects of these mutations and to develop potential therapeutic strategies for these diseases.

Role in Cellular Signaling

The IFT complex has been shown to play a critical role in cellular signaling pathways, including the Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) pathway. This pathway is essential for embryonic development and tissue homeostasis and is dysregulated in various diseases, including cancer. Recombinant Human IFT52 Protein has been used to investigate the role of the IFT complex in Shh signaling and to identify potential targets for therapeutic intervention.

Potential for Drug Discovery

As mentioned earlier, defects in the IFT complex have been linked to various diseases. Therefore, Recombinant Human IFT52 Protein has the potential to be used in drug discovery studies. By understanding the structure and function of this protein,