Cytohesin 3, also known as CYTH3, ARNO3, or GRP1, is a protein encoded by the CYTH3 gene in humans . This protein is a member of the cytohesin family, which is characterized by a specific structural organization that includes an N-terminal coiled-coil motif, a central Sec7 domain, and a C-terminal pleckstrin homology (PH) domain . These domains are crucial for the protein’s function in cellular processes such as protein sorting and membrane trafficking.
Cytohesin 3 plays a significant role in the regulation of protein sorting and membrane trafficking. It is involved in the control of Golgi structure and function and may regulate ADP-ribosylation factor protein 6 (ARF6) functions, in addition to acting on ARF1 . The protein promotes guanine-nucleotide exchange on ARF1 and ARF6, facilitating the activation of ARF factors through the replacement of GDP with GTP .
Recombinant Human Cytohesin 3 is typically produced in Escherichia coli (E. coli) expression systems. The protein is expressed as a full-length protein, often with a His-tag at the N-terminus to facilitate purification . The purification process involves conventional chromatographic techniques to achieve high purity levels suitable for various applications, including SDS-PAGE .
Recombinant Cytohesin 3 is used in various research applications, particularly in studies related to cellular signaling, protein-protein interactions, and membrane trafficking. Its ability to promote guanine-nucleotide exchange makes it a valuable tool for investigating ARF-mediated signaling pathways .