CRYGD Mouse

Crystallins are a family of proteins that are primarily found in the vertebrate eye lens, where they play a crucial role in maintaining the transparency and refractive index of the lens. Among the various types of crystallins, gamma-crystallins are a homogeneous group of highly symmetrical, monomeric proteins that are typically devoid of connecting peptides and terminal extensions .

Gamma-crystallin D (CRYGD) is one of the four gamma-crystallin genes (gamma-A through gamma-D) that are organized in a gene cluster. In mice, the CRYGD gene is located on chromosome 1 . The protein encoded by this gene is involved in maintaining the optical properties of the lens by ensuring its transparency and refractive power .

The mouse recombinant CRYGD protein is produced in E. coli and consists of a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 197 amino acids (1-174 a.a.) with a molecular mass of 23.5 kDa. It is fused to a 23 amino acid His-tag at the N-terminus and purified using proprietary chromatographic techniques .

Crystallins, including gamma-crystallins, are extremely stable proteins that are retained throughout the life of the lens cells. This stability is essential because lens central fiber cells lose their nuclei during development and do not produce or degrade proteins . The high concentration of crystallins in the lens helps to maintain its transparency and refractive index, which are critical for proper vision .

Gamma-crystallins, including CRYGD, have been implicated in cataract formation. Cataracts are characterized by the clouding of the lens, which leads to a decrease in vision. This condition is often associated with the aggregation of crystallin proteins due to aging or mutations in specific genes . Understanding the structure and function of gamma-crystallins can provide insights into the mechanisms underlying cataract formation and potential therapeutic approaches.