BTC Human, HEK

Betacellulin (BTC) is a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family, which includes several growth factors such as EGF, transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-α), amphiregulin, heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF), and various heregulins . Betacellulin was initially identified as a growth-promoting factor in a mouse pancreatic β-cell carcinoma cell line and has since been identified in humans .

Betacellulin is a 32-kilodalton glycoprotein that is processed from a larger transmembrane precursor by proteolytic cleavage . The mature form of Betacellulin is a polymer of about 62-111 amino acid residues . It exhibits 80% amino acid similarity with mouse BTC protein . Betacellulin is a ligand for the EGF receptor (ErbB-1/EGFR) and plays a crucial role in the growth and development of various tissues .

Betacellulin is expressed in most tissues, including the kidney, uterus, liver, and pancreas . It has been shown to promote cell proliferation in various cell types, including Balb/3T3 mouse embryonic fibroblast cells . The biological activity of Betacellulin is measured in cell proliferation assays, with an effective dose (ED50) typically ranging from 0.100-1.50 ng/mL .

Recombinant human Betacellulin is produced using various expression systems, including Escherichia coli (E. coli) and human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells . The recombinant protein is often purified to high levels of purity (>90%) and is free from endotoxins (<1.0 EU per μg of protein) . The recombinant protein is typically lyophilized and can be reconstituted in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) for use in various applications .

Recombinant human Betacellulin is used in various research and therapeutic applications. It is utilized in cell culture systems to promote cell growth and proliferation. Additionally, it is used as a standard in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) and other biochemical assays .