The mouse CD14 cDNA encodes a 366 amino acid precursor protein with a 15 amino acid signal peptide and a C-terminal hydrophobic region characteristic of GPI-anchored proteins . The recombinant mouse CD14 protein is often produced in cell lines such as NS0 or 293E cells and is used in various research applications .
CD14 is a co-receptor for the detection of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a component of the cell wall of Gram-negative bacteria. It interacts with LPS-binding protein (LBP) and forms a complex with Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and MD-2, which subsequently induces inflammatory gene expression through NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways .
Recombinant mouse CD14 is used extensively in immunological research to study the mechanisms of innate immunity and inflammation. It is particularly valuable in experiments involving LPS-induced cytokine production, as it enhances the secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6) by mouse splenocytes . Additionally, CD14 is involved in the modulation of immune responses and has been implicated in various diseases, including sepsis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease .
Recombinant mouse CD14 is typically produced in mammalian cell lines to ensure proper folding and post-translational modifications. The protein is purified using techniques such as affinity chromatography and is often available in carrier-free formulations to avoid interference in experimental assays . The purity of the recombinant protein is usually greater than 95%, as determined by SDS-PAGE under reducing conditions .
The stability of recombinant mouse CD14 is maintained by storing it at -20 to -70°C. It is essential to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles to preserve its activity. Once reconstituted in sterile PBS, the protein can be stored at 2 to 8°C for up to one month or at -20 to -70°C for up to three months under sterile conditions .