BAFF Human, His

B Cell Activating Factor (BAFF), also known as B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS), is a cytokine belonging to the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) ligand family. It plays a crucial role in the survival, proliferation, and differentiation of B cells. BAFF is expressed in B cell lineage cells and acts as a potent B cell activator .

BAFF is a type II membrane protein that can exist in both membrane-bound and soluble forms. The soluble form is derived by cleavage at a furin consensus site. The extracellular domain of BAFF shows high homology with another TNF family member, APRIL (A Proliferation-Inducing Ligand). BAFF primarily functions as a soluble trimer and binds to three receptors with varying affinities: BAFF-R (BAFF Receptor), TACI (Transmembrane Activator and CAML Interactor), and BCMA (B Cell Maturation Antigen) .

BAFF is essential for B cell development and homeostasis. It promotes the maturation and survival of peripheral B cells and enhances B and T cell function. High levels of BAFF are associated with autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren’s syndrome. Additionally, BAFF has been linked to B cell malignancies, including non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma .

Recombinant human BAFF is produced using various expression systems, such as CHO (Chinese Hamster Ovary) cells or HEK293 (Human Embryonic Kidney) cells. The recombinant protein typically includes a His tag at the N-terminus to facilitate purification. The His tag allows for easy isolation of the protein using immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC). The recombinant human BAFF retains its biological activity and can induce the proliferation of B cells in a dose-dependent manner .

Recombinant human BAFF is widely used in research to study B cell biology, autoimmune diseases, and B cell malignancies. It is also utilized in the development of therapeutic agents targeting BAFF or its receptors to treat autoimmune disorders and B cell-related cancers .