ARG2 Human
Description
Product Specs
Product Science Overview
Arginase Type II (ARG2) is one of the two isoforms of the enzyme arginase, which plays a crucial role in the urea cycle by catalyzing the hydrolysis of L-arginine into L-ornithine and urea. While Arginase Type I is predominantly found in the liver, Arginase Type II is primarily located in extra-hepatic tissues, such as the kidney, and is localized in the mitochondria .
Arginase Type II is a binuclear manganese-dependent metalloenzyme. It forms a trimeric active molecule with a molecular mass of approximately 36 kDa . The enzyme’s primary function is to regulate the levels of L-arginine, which is a precursor for the synthesis of nitric oxide, polyamines, proline, glutamate, creatine, and agmatine . By converting L-arginine into L-ornithine and urea, Arginase Type II plays a significant role in cellular metabolism and the regulation of nitric oxide synthesis .
The physiological role of Arginase Type II is not as well understood as that of Arginase Type I. However, it is believed to be involved in several critical biological processes, including nitric oxide and polyamine metabolism . Nitric oxide is a vital signaling molecule involved in various physiological processes, such as vasodilation, neurotransmission, and immune response. Polyamines are essential for cell growth and differentiation .
Arginase Type II has been implicated in various pathological conditions. For instance, it has been associated with the regulation of immune responses and inflammation. Studies have shown that Arginase Type II can influence macrophage function and is linked to chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and atherosclerosis . Additionally, the enzyme’s role in nitric oxide metabolism suggests its potential involvement in cardiovascular diseases and other conditions related to nitric oxide dysregulation .
Recombinant human Arginase Type II is produced using E. coli expression systems. The recombinant protein typically includes an N-terminal Met and a 6-His tag for purification purposes . The specific activity of the recombinant enzyme is measured by the production of urea during the hydrolysis of arginine, with a specific activity greater than 60,000 pmol/min/μg . The recombinant protein is supplied as a 0.2 μm filtered solution in HEPES and NaCl and is stable for up to six months when stored at -20 to -70 °C .
Recombinant human Arginase Type II is used in various research applications, including studies on amino acid metabolism, nitric oxide synthesis, and polyamine metabolism. It is also utilized in investigating the enzyme’s role in pathological conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and immune responses .
