Angiopoietin-1 contains a coiled-coil region and a C-terminal fibrinogen-like domain separated by a short flexible region . This structure allows it to interact with its receptor, Tie-2, a cell surface receptor tyrosine kinase expressed in endothelial and hemopoietic cells . The binding of Ang-1 to Tie-2 activates signaling pathways that promote blood vessel maturation and stability .
Angiopoietin-1 is essential for the proper development of the vascular system during embryogenesis. It helps in the maturation and stabilization of blood vessels by promoting the interaction between endothelial cells and surrounding support cells . This interaction is critical for maintaining the integrity and functionality of the vascular network.
Recombinant human Angiopoietin-1 (rHuANG-1) has been developed for research and potential therapeutic applications. It is produced using recombinant DNA technology, where the gene encoding Ang-1 is inserted into a host cell, typically a mouse myeloma cell line, to produce the protein . The recombinant protein is then purified and used in various studies to understand its role in vascular biology and its potential therapeutic benefits.
Studies have shown that Angiopoietin-1 can inhibit serum deprivation-induced apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), indicating its protective role in vascular cells . This property makes it a potential candidate for therapeutic applications in diseases involving vascular dysfunction, such as diabetic retinopathy, atherosclerosis, and cancer .
Recombinant human Angiopoietin-1 is typically lyophilized from a filtered solution and can be reconstituted in sterile PBS containing human or bovine serum albumin . It is stable for up to 12 months when stored at -20 to -70°C and should be handled under sterile conditions to maintain its activity .