The effective dose that results in 50% of the maximum response (ED50) is less than 10.0 nanograms per milliliter. This value was determined by the dose-dependent proliferation of murine BALB/C 3T3 cells as measured through 3H-thymidine uptake. This corresponds to a specific activity of 100,000 units per milligram.
Betacellulin is synthesized as a transmembrane precursor and is then proteolytically cleaved to release the mature, soluble form of the protein . The mature form of BTC is a heparin-binding protein that plays a crucial role in cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival . It is known to interact with the EGF receptor (EGFR) and ErbB4, leading to the activation of downstream signaling pathways that regulate these cellular processes .
Recombinant Betacellulin, including the bovine version, is produced using various expression systems such as E. coli or HEK293 cells . The recombinant protein is often used in research to study its biological activities and potential therapeutic applications. For instance, recombinant human Betacellulin has been shown to promote the proliferation of Balb/3T3 mouse embryonic fibroblast cells .
Recombinant Betacellulin is utilized in various research areas, including: