Greater than 95.0% as determined by SDS-PAGE.
Complement C1q Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Protein 8 (CTRP8) is a member of the C1q/TNF-related protein (CTRP) family. This family consists of secreted proteins that play significant roles in various physiological processes, including metabolism, inflammation, and cancer. CTRP8, like other members of the CTRP family, is characterized by its structural domains, which include an N-terminal variable domain, a stalk region, and a C-terminal trimerizing globular C1q (gC1q) domain .
CTRP8 is known for its ability to form homo- and heterotypic trimers and oligomers, which can exhibit different biological activities. The gC1q domain is crucial for the trimerization and function of these proteins. The structure of CTRP8 allows it to interact with specific receptors and activate downstream signaling pathways .
One of the key receptors for CTRP8 is the relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1). The interaction between CTRP8 and RXFP1 has been shown to activate several signaling pathways that support enhanced cell motility and survival. This interaction is particularly significant in the context of cancer, where CTRP8 has been identified as a novel ligand of RXFP1 with functions in brain cancer .
CTRP8 has emerged as an important player in cancer biology. It has been implicated in the promotion of tumor growth and tissue invasion. In glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, CTRP8 has been shown to enhance cell migration and survival through its interaction with RXFP1. This makes CTRP8 a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment .
Beyond its role in cancer, CTRP8, along with other CTRP family members, is involved in the regulation of metabolism and inflammation. CTRPs have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and insulin-sensitizing effects, making them relevant in conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The coordinated communication of different organs mediated by CTRPs is essential for maintaining a healthy metabolic state .